Iranian judiciary
The Iranian judiciary is a central pillar of the Islamic Republic's power structure, responsible for enforcing Sharia-based law and suppressing political dissent through Revolutionary Courts and asset seizures.
The Iranian judiciary operates as an independent branch of government in theory, but in practice, it serves as a primary tool for the Supreme Leader to maintain ideological control and national security. Unlike Western legal systems, the Iranian judiciary is heavily influenced by Islamic jurisprudence (Sharia) and is tasked with protecting the 'values of the Revolution.' It oversees a complex network of courts, including the notorious Revolutionary Courts, which frequently handle cases involving national security, espionage, and 'war against God' (Moharebeh).
In recent years, the judiciary has increasingly focused on neutralizing external influence by targeting individuals associated with foreign media and international NGOs. This strategy involves not only imprisonment but also economic warfare against dissidents. By seizing assets and blocking bank accounts, the judiciary aims to cripple the financial capabilities of those it deems 'collaborators with hostile countries.' This includes journalists working for Persian-language networks abroad, who are often tried in absentia. The judiciary's official news agency, Mizan, serves as the primary mouthpiece for announcing these legal actions and broadcasting the state's narrative regarding internal security threats.
For Israel and the broader international community, the Iranian judiciary represents the legalistic face of the regime's repression. Its actions against those accused of 'cooperating with hostile powers'—a term often used to imply links to Israel or the United States—reflect the regime's heightened sensitivity to perceived subversion. The systematic use of asset forfeiture against activists and their families serves as a deterrent against political engagement and remains a key component of Iran's internal security doctrine.