Hamid Ashtari, a political activist based in Sweden who spent eight years in Iranian prison, commented on Sharmahd's execution, stating that it often occurs when the regime faces multiple pressures: 'Whenever the regime faces escalating political, social, and economic issues that weaken it, there tends to be an increase in executions. This is based on the belief that executing individuals can help the regime address its problems and reinforce its authority.'
The little-known Tondar group, which Sharmahd was accused of leading, is based in California and aims to restore Iran's monarchy that was overthrown by the 1979 Islamic revolution. Although it began its activities around 20 years ago, it has maintained only limited connections with other Iranian opposition groups and has a minimal presence in popular Farsi-language media.
Iran's Ministry of Intelligence claimed its agents captured Sharmahd in a 'complex operation,' alleging he had links to US and Israeli intelligence services. The intelligence minister insinuated that Sharmahd had been 'drawn' to Iran through elaborate operations, implying he was abducted while in the UAE before being brought to Iran.
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