An Iranian court on Monday sentenced an Iranian man to death for allegedly spying for Israel. The Iranian FARS news agency reported that Ali Ashtari was accused of “jeopardizing Iranian security” and of receiving payment from the Mossad.

The 45-year-old is a tradesman in electronic merchandise who supplied military, security and defense centers across the country with electronic devices.

Iran’s state TV quoted an unnamed official as saying Ashtari “relayed sensitive information on military, defense and research centers” to Mossad intelligence officers.

The material reportedly included information on Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization. The official also said Ashtari, who was arrested in 2007, tried to “create a link” between Iranian experts and Israeli agents.

The name of the suspected spy was kept secret until Monday morning, when the death sentence was meted out.

On Saturday, Ashtari appeared in court to face charges of spying for Israel in exchange for money. According to Iranian media reports, the presiding judge was shown “spying equipment” which the prosecution claims was provided by the Mossad.

Iranian television broadcasted footage of Ashtari as he was being led to court.

During the deliberation, Ashtari’s attorney claimed that his client was innocent. Ashtari has 20 days to appeal.

Source: The Jerusalem Post