American Citizen in Jerusalem Charged with Spying for Iranian Intelligence

The Israeli State Prosecutor's Office has filed charges against Eli Lavon, a 21-year-old American citizen residing in Jerusalem, accusing him of espionage on behalf of Iranian intelligence. According to the indictment submitted to the Jerusalem District Court, Lavon established contact with operatives identifying themselves as "Sina" and "Alexander," agents of Iranian intelligence, between late 2025 and early 2026. Despite being aware they were foreign agents, Lavon carried out various tasks for them within Israel.

These tasks included photographing Jerusalem's central bus station, documenting a building in the Bukharim neighborhood, and covertly placing notes and USB devices in public locations such as the Hadar Mall and a restaurant in Jerusalem. Lavon recorded his activities and transmitted the evidence to his handlers. In return, he received approximately $1,379 in digital currency payments from the two agents.

Attorney Ronit Shnitzer Yakobi of the Jerusalem District Prosecutor's Office emphasized the dangers of seemingly minor requests via digital platforms like Telegram, warning that such interactions can quickly escalate into collaboration with hostile entities against Israel. The investigation was conducted by the Jerusalem District Central Unit and the Shin Bet security service. Lavon faces charges of contact with a foreign agent and providing information to the enemy that could aid them. The prosecution has also requested his detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings.