Israeli police and the Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency have revealed the arrest of a network of Israeli citizens accused of spying for Iran. The group allegedly conducted surveillance of military installations and individuals, gathering sensitive information on behalf of Iranian intelligence operatives.
Alleged espionage activities
Reports indicate that the network had been active for over two years, carrying out as many as 600 missions. The suspects are accused of photographing and collecting intelligence on key Israeli military bases, including the Kirya defence headquarters in Tel Aviv and the Nevatim and Ramat David airbases. Both airbases have been targets of previous attacks by Iran and Hezbollah.
“This is one of the most serious security cases investigated in recent years,” state prosecutors stated.
The arrests follow the detention in September of an Israeli businessman accused of travelling to Iran to discuss plans to assassinate prominent figures, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar.
Suspects and their operations
The arrested individuals, described as Jewish immigrants from Azerbaijan residing in the Haifa area, allegedly collaborated with Iranian intelligence agents known as “Alkhan” and “Orkhan.” Seven suspects, including two minors, are expected to face charges of aiding an enemy during wartime.
According to investigators, the group provided detailed reconnaissance on Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) installations, naval bases, Iron Dome systems, and critical energy infrastructure such as the Hadera power plant. Their activities were financially motivated, with payments reportedly amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars, transferred through Russian intermediaries and cryptocurrencies.
Sophisticated espionage methods
Yaron Binyamin, a police investigator, described a meticulous operation:
- Instructions and Payments: Suspects received specific instructions on what sites to photograph, what details to document, and the amount of compensation for each mission.
- Advanced Equipment: Equipment for these tasks was provided under Iranian guidance.
- Encrypted Communication: The collected data was transmitted to Iranian handlers using encrypted software.
“The suspects worked systematically, travelling to sites, setting up equipment, and transmitting sensitive images and information,” Binyamin said.
Police uncovered dozens of documents in the suspects’ possession, detailing precise instructions for their reconnaissance missions. Three members of the network were caught while photographing sensitive locations in southern Israel.
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Surveillance of individuals
In addition to gathering intelligence on military sites, the network allegedly conducted surveillance on specific Israeli citizens. Authorities believe these activities may have been part of Iranian plans to harm targeted individuals.
One suspect was apprehended while attempting to collect information on a resident near their location, raising concerns over potential threats to Israeli citizens.
Broader implications
The arrests highlight that espionage activities between Israel and Iran are not unidirectional. While Israeli intelligence operations often target Iranian and Hezbollah activities, these arrests underscore Iran’s ability to infiltrate and operate within Israel.
“This case reflects a broader challenge,” said a Shin Bet official. “It’s a stark reminder that while Israel excels in intelligence operations, it is not immune to threats within its borders.”
Continued investigations
Israel’s state attorney suggested that other undisclosed cases might also be under investigation, indicating the potential for further revelations. The Shin Bet is reportedly assessing additional threats posed by Iranian-backed networks.
Conclusion
The arrests mark a significant blow to Iranian intelligence efforts in Israel, but they also raise concerns about the vulnerabilities exposed by the case. While the suspects are expected to face charges soon, the incident underscores the ongoing and evolving security challenges Israel faces in its long-standing conflict with Iran and its regional proxies.
