Iranian Hackers Distribute Threatening Leaflets in Tel Aviv Mailboxes

Iranian propaganda has escalated from online platforms to physical distribution within Israel, with residents in northern Tel Aviv discovering threatening leaflets in their mailboxes on Monday. The campaign is attributed to the pro-Iranian hacker group "Handalah," known for previous cyberattacks and data leaks. The leaflets featured the group's symbol, the slogans "#NoWater" and "#Electricity," and a QR code leading to a website of a terrorist organization.

The website contained a menacing message warning of retaliation for potential Israeli strikes on Iranian energy facilities. It stated, "If your leaders act irresponsibly again and target the energy infrastructure of the 'resistance front,' be prepared to pay a heavy price, not on the battlefield, but in your daily lives." The message further threatened, "Not a single power plant, refinery, or desalination plant will remain in the occupied territories, from north to south. You will be forced to live in shelters without electricity, water, or hope."

Handalah claimed responsibility, asserting that dozens of its operatives distributed hundreds of thousands of leaflets door-to-door in Tel Aviv overnight without detection. Beyond the psychological warfare, the incident raises significant security concerns due to the operational aspect: the physical distribution of materials within Israel suggests the presence of individuals acting on Iran's behalf. Security assessments indicate that the perpetrators likely had contact with Iranian handlers, received financial compensation, printed the materials, and distributed them without prior interception.

The Israel Police confirmed the incident and has launched an intensive investigation, involving the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency). Police are examining the circumstances of the leaflet distribution and identifying those involved. The public has been advised not to scan the QR codes and to report any encountered leaflets to the emergency services. Security officials emphasized that while the threats are explicit, there is currently no indication of actual breaches into Israel's electricity or water control systems, characterizing the operation primarily as psychological warfare aimed at inciting panic.