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Civilian, three IDF soldiers indicted for spying for Iran prior to enlistment

From Jerusalem Post · (4m ago) English Critical tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • A civilian and three IDF soldiers were indicted for allegedly spying for Iran before their military enlistment.
  • The suspects are accused of photographing public and security sites across Israel and transferring the information to Iranian handlers.
  • This case is part of a series of Iranian recruitment efforts targeting individuals within Israel.

The Jerusalem Post reports on a disturbing case where Israeli security authorities have indicted a civilian and three IDF soldiers for alleged long-term contact with Iranian intelligence. These individuals, prior to their enlistment, are accused of carrying out sensitive tasks under the direction of Iranian operatives, including photographing critical public and security-related sites across Israel. The Shin Bet, Israel Police, and Military Police confirmed the joint operation that led to the arrests and subsequent indictment.

The suspects allegedly photographed public and security-related sites across Israel and were asked to acquire weapons.

โ€” Israeli security authoritiesStatement confirming the indictment of the civilian and three IDF soldiers.

The investigation revealed a pattern of alleged espionage, with one suspect reportedly recruiting others and directing them to conduct photography missions. The targets included train stations, shopping centers, and even the Israeli Air Force technical school, where some of the accused had studied. Authorities also stated that the suspects were asked to acquire weapons and were involved in vandalism as part of their dealings with foreign handlers. This incident underscores a persistent concern for Israeli security regarding Iranian attempts to infiltrate and gather intelligence within the country.

The investigation found that one of the suspects allegedly recruited the others and directed them to carry out various photography missions across the country.

โ€” AuthoritiesDetails on the alleged espionage activities.

This case is not an isolated event, but rather adds to a growing list of similar Iranian recruitment efforts that have surfaced in Israel. These efforts have previously involved soldiers, reservists, and civilians accused of gathering intelligence or executing missions for Iranian operatives. The Jerusalem Post will continue to follow this developing story and its implications for national security.

Investigators said some of the suspects independently approached the handler to request security-related tasks.

โ€” InvestigatorsFurther details on the suspects' engagement with foreign handlers.
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Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.