TIRANA, March 20 – The United States announced a major operation against cyber networks linked to Iran, seizing four websites used for attacks and psychological operations. Authorities confirmed these networks also targeted Albania in 2022.

The seized domains – Justicehomeland[.]org, Handala-Hack[.]to, Karmabelow80[.]org, and Handala-Redwanted[.]to – were linked to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security. US officials said the platforms carried out cyberattacks, stole data, and incited violence against Iranian regime opponents, including operations against Albanian institutions.

Investigations revealed the networks sent direct threats to journalists and dissidents in the US and abroad. One message claimed collaboration with a Mexican cartel, offering up to 250,000 dollars for assassinations. Two domains, Justicehomeland[.]org and Karmabelow80[.]org, published stolen documents from Albanian government institutions. FBI investigations remain ongoing.

US authorities tied the attacks to Albania’s hosting of the Iranian opposition group Mujahedeen e-Khalq. All individuals involved will face prosecution. The US Department of State offered up to 10 million dollars for information leading to the identification of cyber attackers targeting critical US infrastructure.

The operation comes amid an ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The conflict began on February 28, when US and Israeli forces launched a joint strike on Iranian military and ballistic programs. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks against Israel and US bases in the Persian Gulf, including Bahrain.

The seizure highlights the global reach of Iranian cyber operations and the risks to regional partners, including Albania, from politically motivated attacks.

/a.p./