Israeli Arab Citizen Arrested for Spying for Iran

Israeli police and the Shin Bet security agency announced on Sunday the arrest of Wissam Ghalib Saleh Awad, a resident of the village of Al-Mazra'a near Acre. He is suspected of contacting Iranian intelligence services and carrying out intelligence gathering and photography missions for them. The prosecution has filed serious charges against him in court and requested his detention until the legal proceedings are concluded.

The investigation, which began last month and involved the Shin Bet and the central unit of the Asher region, led to Awad's arrest after his home was raided and mobile phones and computers were confiscated. Investigators claim Awad initiated contact with Iranian entities via the Telegram app, offering his services for ideological reasons and a desire for revenge, without financial compensation. He reportedly expressed sympathy for groups designated as terrorist organizations by Israel, including Hezbollah.

According to the joint statement, the suspect allegedly photographed strategic facilities, military bases, and police stations, transmitting the images and information, including geographic coordinates, to his handlers for future use. Awad's detention was extended multiple times during the investigation. On Sunday, November 15, 2026, the Haifa District Prosecution filed an indictment against him at the Haifa Magistrate's Court, seeking his continued detention until the end of the judicial process.

Police and the Shin Bet stated they view any involvement of Israeli citizens in activities that endanger state security very seriously. They affirmed their ongoing efforts to thwart what they described as Iranian activities and espionage linked to groups designated as terrorist organizations by Israel.