Authorities in Iran have issued a stark warning to Iranian citizens living abroad, saying they could face asset confiscation and even the death penalty if they are found to be cooperating with countries considered hostile to Tehran.

Iranians residing outside the country risk having their property and financial assets seized if they engage in activities described as “cooperation with the enemy”, The Caspian Post reports via Iranian media.

The statement also warned that individuals could face additional punishments under Iran’s Islamic Penal Code, including capital punishment in severe cases.

Iranian prosecutors said the term “cooperation with the enemy” refers to intelligence sharing, espionage, or other forms of collaboration with countries such as Israel and the US, as well as groups considered hostile to the Iranian government.