Foreign National Arrested in Israel for Espionage on Behalf of Iran

Israeli security agencies, including the Shin Bet, the Central Unit for Combating Terrorism, and the Israel Police, announced the arrest of a foreign national suspected of conducting espionage for Iranian intelligence. The suspect, Rahroz Subirgon, a Tajikistani citizen holding a Russian passport, was detained in June 2026 after maintaining continuous contact with an Iranian foreign agent since January of the same year.

Investigations revealed that Subirgon’s intelligence activities took place during the "Roaring Lion" conflict, aiming to assist Iran in achieving operational gains and advancing its interests against Israel on the international stage. His contact with Iranian handlers began with what appeared to be a benign job offer on social media, but despite quickly realizing the Iranian connection, he actively continued cooperation.

Subirgon’s sensitive missions included photographing and transmitting precise locations of Iranian missile impacts during the conflict, mapping key sites such as the Azrieli Towers in Tel Aviv, documenting Haifa port, attempting to photograph a sensitive security facility in northern Israel, and actively recruiting others within Israel for Tehran’s intelligence operations.

Following the case, Israeli security bodies emphasized ongoing efforts by enemy intelligence and terror organizations to recruit Israelis and foreign residents for espionage and terror activities, often using social media and seemingly innocent job offers. The public was urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious contacts immediately, with authorities committed to thwarting espionage networks and prosecuting those involved.