Iran’s state broadcaster has launched a new espionage drama that appears to mirror the Israeli hit series “Tehran,” offering a version of the story told from the perspective of the Islamic Republic.
The series, titled “Night Light,” debuted as part of Nowruz programming marking the Persian New Year. According to Iran’s Mehr news agency, the 30-episode drama is inspired by “real events” and follows an intelligence unit working to counter espionage and sabotage networks inside the country.
Iran's 'Night Light'
(Video: Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB))
At the center of the plot is a foreign female agent named Ramos, described as a mysterious and powerful operative sent into Iran on a “complex mission.” The premise closely resembles that of “Tehran,” the internationally successful Israeli series about a Mossad agent operating inside the Iranian capital.
But unlike the Israeli production, where viewers follow the protagonist’s attempts to succeed, “Night Light” presents the story from the regime’s viewpoint, focusing on efforts to thwart infiltration and defend national security.
The similarities are striking: a female spy, covert operations on Iranian soil and a narrative built around intelligence warfare. This time, however, the narrative aligns with Tehran’s official messaging.
The timing of the release is also significant. The series premieres as the war with Iran continues and as authorities intensify messaging around alleged spies and collaborators with Israel and the United States, including public reports of arrests and executions.
Produced by Iran’s state broadcasting authority, the show is expected to incorporate clear ideological messaging alongside action sequences and dramatic storytelling.
A teaser released ahead of the premiere features gunfire and high-intensity scenes, signaling a production designed to capture public attention. The series was filmed in Tehran and other locations across Iran.
The lead role is played by well-known actress Roya Nonahali, whose return to television has generated additional buzz domestically.
According to Iranian media, “Night Light” is one of the broadcaster’s most ambitious recent productions and has already drawn significant attention even before airing.
Babak Itzhaki, a reporter for Iran International, told ynet that special television programming is traditionally released for Nowruz, when much of the country enters a holiday period.
“From the moment the new year begins, there is effectively a two-week vacation across Iran,” he said. “For 13 days, people are off work and school, and on the final day they go out to parks to celebrate.”
He noted that Nowruz, often referred to as the “festival of spring,” shares similarities with Jewish traditions, including thorough home cleaning and symbolic holiday displays.
Against that cultural backdrop, the launch of a high-profile espionage drama during wartime underscores what analysts describe as a broader effort by the Iranian regime to shape public perception, blending entertainment with messaging at a politically sensitive moment.