Northern Resident to Be Charged With Spying for Iran

Israeli security forces, including the Shin Bet and the police, announced Sunday the arrest of Wisam Galeb Saleh Awad, an Israeli citizen residing in Mazra'a in northern Israel. Awad is suspected of contacting a foreign agent and carrying out actions detrimental to the country's security. The Haifa District Prosecutor's Office is expected to file an indictment against him in the Haifa Magistrate's Court, along with a request for his detention until the end of proceedings.

The investigation, which began last month, was a joint effort by the Shin Bet and the central unit of the Asher region police. During the operation, investigators and additional security forces raided Awad's home, arrested him, and seized mobile phones and computers. According to the police and Shin Bet statement, the investigation revealed that Awad initiated contact with Iranian elements via Telegram, offering his services out of ideological motivation, a desire for revenge, and without financial compensation. He also expressed identification with terror organizations, including Hezbollah.

During his alleged operation, Awad reportedly carried out photography missions of strategic facilities, military bases, and police stations. He is suspected of transferring this documentation and coordinates to his handlers for future use. Awad's detention has been extended periodically, and security forces have now announced the conclusion of the investigation and the formation of a sufficient evidentiary basis against him.