Israeli Supreme Court President Orders House Arrest for Soldier Accused of Iranian Espionage

Israeli Supreme Court President Justice Isaac Amit has ordered the release to house arrest under electronic monitoring of a reservist soldier accused of contact with an Iranian foreign agent, according to i24NEWS correspondent Avishai Greenstein, who described the decision as "at least puzzling." The soldier served in the Air Force command bunker and was charged in January 2025 alongside another soldier in a sensitive position. The indictment alleges that the two posted pro-Iranian graffiti and signs in exchange for payment from a foreign agent representing an enemy state at war with Israel. The accused admitted to these acts during interrogation.

The legal proceedings are at an advanced stage, with the prosecution's case concluded. Despite the probation service's clear opposition, citing the accused’s lack of responsibility and significant danger, Justice Amit ruled in favor of release. The probation reports recommended against house arrest due to the risk posed, but the judge weighed the prolonged legal process and the harsh conditions of detention.

Justice Amit stated that given the elapsed time since the arrest and ongoing delays, electronic monitoring suffices even if not ideal. This ruling contradicts professional recommendations and comes amid related espionage allegations involving an ambulance driver accused of spying for Iran. The case highlights tensions between judicial decisions and security assessments in sensitive espionage matters.