Iranian authorities have arrested Marek Kaufmann, a German national described as a dual-national Jewish tourist, on espionage charges after he was allegedly found cycling near sensitive military and nuclear facilities in Markazi province.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) detained Kaufmann after he was reportedly discovered cycling close to restricted sites, including the Arak nuclear reactor and various military installations.

Iranian state media, including the IRGC-linked Mehr News Agency, released a four-minute heavily edited video showing Kaufmann in cycling gear, identifying himself and stating he was aware he was near a military area where photography was prohibited.

In the video, Kaufmann admitted to sending his location to a friend but did not provide a clear confession to espionage. He stated that his Garmin smartwatch had simply suggested a detour, leading him into the restricted area.

Iranian officials accuse Kaufmann of gathering intelligence on sensitive locations including missile silos, drone routes and airbases.

The video's narrator, Ameneh Sadat Zabihpour—who has been sanctioned by the United States for producing forced confessions—alleged Kaufmann was receiving instructions from "American and Jewish commanders" and that his navigation was being remotely controlled.

The arrest reportedly occurred several weeks ago but was only publicised now, coinciding with a surge in foreign detentions in Iran following Israel's recent strikes on Iranian territory.

Kaufmann is currently being held in Tehran's Evin Prison, known for housing political prisoners and foreign detainees, with the German embassy in the city aware of his location and arrest.

German authorities have yet to officially comment on the case. The timing of the announcement has fuelled speculation that Iran may be using the detention as leverage amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Despite the German national's arrest and detention, following Israeli strikes on the Iranian capital since June 13, workers have evacuated the building, potentially leaving Kaufmann with no support.

The incident highlights escalating risks faced by foreign travellers in Iran, particularly amid the ongoing conflict with Israel and increased scrutiny of Western nationals within the country.