IDF soldier jailed for five years for spying for Iran

An Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldier has received a five-year prison sentence for espionage activities on behalf of Iran throughout 2025. A military court handed down the sentence after convicting the soldier of passing sensitive security information to Iranian agents in exchange for financial compensation.

The accusations included providing videos of missile interceptions, some filmed during Operation Rising Lion, and other footage showing missiles hitting Israel. The soldier allegedly received messages via Telegram offering payment for videos and photographs of classified security details.

During the trial, the military court acknowledged that the soldier had not divulged core IDF operational secrets or footage acquired through his official duties. Despite this, the conviction for espionage led to the significant prison term. In addition to the jail time, the soldier was fined 1,000 shekels and demoted to the rank of Private.

Security forces arrested the soldier after he confessed to being in contact with a foreign agent. The IDF announced the sentencing on Wednesday, marking a serious breach of security within the military ranks. The case highlights the ongoing intelligence threats faced by Israel.