Russia Claims Israeli Historian Arrested for Espionage at Ben Gurion Airport

Russian media outlets are reporting that Artem Krapivnoy, a Russian-Israeli historian known for his strong anti-Israel stances, is the Israeli citizen arrested in Israel on suspicion of operating on behalf of foreign intelligence. Krapivnoy, 51, landed at Ben Gurion Airport on August 2nd and has been out of contact since. He previously lived in Israel for 15 years, served in the IDF, and studied at the Hebrew University, but had recently returned to Russia.

While an Israeli gag order was in place regarding the suspect's identity, Russian news agencies, including Meduza, identified him as Krapivnoy. He was reportedly arrested by Shin Bet agents immediately upon arrival and has been held incommunicado. The indictment, filed by the Central District Prosecutor's Office, accuses him of engaging in foreign influence operations against Israel.

The case caused a stir in Moscow earlier in the month when Krapivnoy's friends and human rights activists reported him missing and appealed for help. The Russian Embassy in Israel was reportedly contacted to inquire about his disappearance.

Israeli security officials confirmed the arrest of an Israeli citizen on suspicion of being activated by foreign intelligence agencies and engaging in foreign influence activities. Russian sources are convinced this individual is the blogger who vanished at the airport.