Turkish authorities have arrested six individuals, including one Iranian national, on suspicion of conducting espionage activities on behalf of Iran, according to local media reports published on Wednesday, 28 January 2026.
The detentions were carried out during simultaneous security operations in five provinces, including Istanbul and Ankara, following a joint investigation by Turkey’s counterterrorism units and the National Intelligence Organization (MIT), state broadcaster TRT reported.
Alleged Espionage Activities
According to investigators, the suspects are believed to have monitored military installations and strategically sensitive locations across Turkey, acting on behalf of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
One of the key locations allegedly surveilled was İncirlik Air Base in the southern province of Adana, a NATO facility hosting U.S. military forces. Authorities also claim the group gathered intelligence and logistical data and transmitted it to Iranian intelligence operatives.
In addition, investigators reportedly found evidence suggesting the suspects had tracked the transportation of drones through Turkish territory, potentially destined for use in other countries.
Suspects and Ongoing Investigation
Local media said one of the detainees is an Iranian citizen, while the remaining five are Turkish nationals. All six have been taken into custody as the investigation continues.
The Iranian Embassy in Ankara has not yet commented on the arrests.
Heightened Regional Tensions
The operation comes amid escalating regional tensions, driven by concerns over a potential U.S. military strike on Iran. Turkish officials have repeatedly warned that foreign military intervention could lead to regional instability and trigger a new wave of refugees.
Earlier on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that a “massive armada” was heading toward Iran, urging Tehran to return to negotiations. Washington has since moved the USS Abraham Lincoln and several guided missile destroyers into the region, increasing military pressure on Iran.
Security Implications
The arrests highlight Turkey’s growing vigilance against foreign intelligence operations on its soil, particularly at a time when geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are intensifying.
