American Satmar Hasid Arrested for Spying for Iran on Israeli Officials

An American Satmar Hasid named Yaakov Perl was arrested for espionage activities on behalf of Iranian intelligence during the recent conflict in Israel. Perl, who had traveled to Israel, was tasked by an Iranian handler to document sensitive locations, including the homes of former IDF Chief of Staff Herzli Halevi and Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The investigation revealed that Perl recorded video footage disguised as innocent cycling trips, but these were used to gather intelligence for Iran.

Perl was instructed to acquire a GoPro camera to film his routes and was warned by his Iranian handler to avoid detection by Israeli security forces. He initially documented the area around Halevi’s residence and was later asked to move closer to his home. The handler also directed Perl to surveil Minister Ben-Gvir’s home and security arrangements, even instructing him to film provocative acts to provoke reactions. Perl refused to approach the Temple Mount area due to religious reasons.

The Shin Bet and Lahav 433 investigators arrested Perl after uncovering his activities. He admitted to receiving approximately $15,000 for his espionage but showed no remorse. A serious indictment was filed against him in the Tel Aviv District Court, and he remains in custody. Authorities emphasized that Iran continues to seek Israeli collaborators willing to spy within Israel for financial gain, highlighting ongoing espionage threats.

This case exposes the depth of Iranian intelligence efforts to recruit individuals inside Israel, including those with religious affiliations, to gather critical security information during wartime.