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Ongoing Story· Day 59

Two Israeli Arabs Arrested for Alleged Foreign Intelligence Ties

3 developments

Israel PoliceSecurity

Israeli Arab Arrested for Spying for Iran

Translated & summarized from Israel Police by baba

OfficialCharged tone

Hebrew · 13 newsrooms covering

Israeli security forces arrested Wisam Galib Saleh Awad, an Israeli Arab from Mazra'a, on suspicion of spying for Iran. He allegedly photographed strategic sites and military bases for Iranian handlers, motivated by ideology and revenge. An indictment is expected to be filed against him, with authorities vowing zero tolerance for such activities.

The story in 5 lines · by baba

  • Wisam Galib Saleh Awad, an Israeli Arab, was arrested for allegedly spying for Iran.
  • He is accused of photographing strategic sites and military bases for Iranian handlers.
  • Awad reportedly contacted Iranian operatives via Telegram, motivated by ideology and revenge.
  • The Shin Bet and Israel Police collaborated on the investigation.
  • An indictment is expected to be filed against Awad with a request for detention until trial.
Israeli Arab Arrested for Spying for Iran
Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Israeli security forces have arrested an Israeli Arab citizen, Wisam Galib Saleh Awad, from the village of Mazra'a in the Asher region, on suspicion of contacting foreign agents and carrying out acts detrimental to national security. The investigation, a joint effort between the Shin Bet and the Asher District's Central Unit, began last month. During the operation, investigators raided Awad's home, arresting him and seizing mobile phones and computers.

According to the findings, Awad initiated contact with Iranian operatives via the Telegram app, offering his services for ideological reasons, driven by a desire for revenge rather than financial gain. He expressed solidarity with terrorist organizations like Hezbollah. His activities included photographing strategic facilities, military bases, and police stations, and transmitting the documentation and coordinates to his handlers for future use.

Awad's detention has been extended multiple times. With the investigation concluded and a solid evidentiary basis established, the Haifa District Prosecutor's Office is set to file a severe indictment against him in the Haifa Magistrate's Court on Tuesday. A request to detain him until the legal proceedings are complete will also be submitted.

Israel Police and the Shin Bet emphasized the gravity with which they view any involvement of Israeli citizens in activities that endanger the state's security. They pledged to continue their determined efforts, in cooperation, with zero tolerance for those acting on behalf of Iran and terrorist entities.

Israel PoliceOfficial · Jerusalem

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