Israeli Arab Arrested for Espionage on Behalf of Lebanese Handler

Israeli police and the Shin Bet security agency announced the arrest of Hamdan Hamdan, a 32-year-old resident of Majd al-Krum, on suspicion of security offenses. Hamdan is accused of communicating with a Lebanese operative and carrying out security tasks under her direction.

The arrest was the result of a joint operation by the National Bureau for International Crimes Investigations, Lahav 433, and the Shin Bet. Initial investigations revealed that Hamdan had been in contact with the foreign operative for several months. He was allegedly tasked with performing security missions and was aware that his contact was a Lebanese operative.

Investigators also found that the Lebanese side attempted to compensate Hamdan by purchasing products within Israel and transferring them to him. The investigation, overseen by the Haifa District Prosecutor's Office, is ongoing.

Police and the Shin Bet stated that an indictment is expected to be filed against Hamdan on Sunday, September 20, 2026. They reiterated warnings to Israeli citizens against contacting individuals from countries considered hostile by Israel or unknown entities, especially for carrying out tasks for them, whether for payment or other reasons.

The security agencies noted that intelligence agencies and terrorist organizations in hostile countries continue their efforts to recruit Israelis for security missions, espionage, and terrorism-related activities within Israel, including during the current war. These efforts often involve recruitment via social media.

Israel's security forces affirmed their commitment to monitoring and thwarting acts of terrorism and espionage, vowing to continue taking all available measures to prevent any security incidents that could endanger the state and its citizens.