Israeli Arab Suspected of Photographing Bases for Iran

The Haifa District Prosecutor's Office is expected to file an indictment against Wissam Galeb Saleh Awad, an Arab Israeli citizen from Mazra'a in the north. According to a joint statement from the police and the Shin Bet security agency, Awad is suspected of documenting military bases, police stations, and strategic facilities and transferring the information to Iranian intelligence officials. Investigators believe Awad initiated contact with Iranian operatives via Telegram, offering his services. The police and Shin Bet attribute his actions to ideological motives and a desire for revenge, noting his expressed identification with terror organizations, including Hezbollah. He allegedly provided his handlers with photographs and coordinates of the documented sites without financial compensation.

The investigation, which began last month, was jointly conducted by the Shin Bet and the Central Unit of the Asher region police. Awad was arrested at his home, and mobile phones and computers were seized. His detention has been extended periodically during the investigation. The indictment is expected to be filed at the Haifa Magistrate's Court, along with a request to extend his remand until the legal proceedings conclude.