Kiryat Yam Man Charged with Espionage for Iranian Intelligence

A man from Kiryat Yam, Shimon Azarzar, has been indicted for allegedly spying for Iranian intelligence. The 27-year-old was arrested alongside his girlfriend in October 2023, accused of gathering sensitive military information and carrying out tasks under Iranian direction. The indictment was filed at the Haifa District Court on Sunday, detailing charges that include espionage and unauthorized contact with a foreign agent.

According to the Shin Bet and Israel Police, Azarzar transmitted photos and coordinates of strategic sites within Israel to Iranian operatives over a year-long period. Reports indicate that he utilized his girlfriend, a reservist stationed at an Air Force base, to collect additional intelligence about the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) facilities and operations.

The indictment outlines that Azarzar received payments through digital transfers for his espionage activities. Authorities revealed that he had offered to relay information from military bases, leveraging his girlfriend’s access to classified operations and locations. In a joint statement, the Shin Bet and police emphasized the risks involved, warning citizens against engaging with foreign agents from hostile states.

“The Israel Security Agency and Israel Police once again warn Israeli citizens and residents against maintaining any contact with foreign elements from enemy states or unidentified sources,” the statement noted. It further stressed the importance of vigilance against potential espionage activities and the commitment to bringing those involved to justice.

In connection with this case, another suspect was apprehended a week before Azarzar’s arrest on similar espionage charges. Investigators discovered digital materials and 18 SIM cards intended for communication with hostile foreign agents during a search of the suspect’s residence. Despite these findings, the Magistrate’s Court released him without imposing house arrest.

The second suspect reportedly photographed several locations at the request of an Iranian handler, including the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Ganei Avraham Park in Tel Aviv. He allegedly received thousands of shekels in cryptocurrency as payment for his activities, raising concerns about the ongoing threat of espionage linked to Iranian interests within Israel.

The investigations underscore the persistent challenges faced by Israeli authorities in countering espionage and ensuring national security. The Shin Bet and police continue to actively monitor and respond to threats posed by foreign intelligence operations targeting Israel.