Indictment Filed Against Reservist in Classified Unit for Espionage on Behalf of Iran

The State Prosecutor's Office has filed an indictment against an Israeli citizen who served in a classified unit, on suspicion of contact with a foreign agent and attempting to convey information to the enemy. The defendant was in contact with an individual identifying as Iranian and was even asked to assist in recruiting a soldier. The investigation was conducted by the Security Department in the Ministry of Defense (MALMAB) and the Shin Bet.

On July 16, the State Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment in the Tel Aviv District Court against an Israeli citizen, who served in active duty and reserves in a classified unit, for offenses of contact with a foreign agent and attempting to convey information to the enemy. The court today (Wednesday) permitted the publication of limited details after narrowing a sweeping gag order. An investigation by the Erezim Unit of the MALMAB and the Shin Bet revealed that the defendant was in contact with an individual who identified himself as an Iranian intelligence operative. At a certain stage, the defendant was even asked to assist in recruiting a soldier for contact with those operatives. The case is being handled by attorney Irina Inberg from the Cyber Department of the State Prosecutor's Office, and further details of the case and the identities of those involved remain under seal. In a joint statement by the Shin Bet, MALMAB, IDF, and Israel Police, a warning was issued against contact with foreign entities. Earlier this month, over 70 Iranian espionage cases were reported in Israel.