Israeli Couple Charged with Espionage for Iranian Agent After Filming Security Sites

The Israeli State Prosecutor's Office filed espionage charges against Tamirlan Amshukov, 26, and Alina Kushnirenko, 24, a married couple from Ashkelon. They allegedly worked for about three months collecting intelligence across Israel for an Iranian intelligence agent, receiving cryptocurrency payments totaling $4,451.70.

According to the indictment, Amshukov initially contacted a Telegram profile named "Aslan," who offered him tasks involving cash withdrawals and later surveillance missions. He recruited his partner to assist with these operations. Investigations by the Lahav 433 unit and Shin Bet revealed the couple documented locations including Ramat Aviv Mall, Herzl Mountain with IDF soldiers hours before a state ceremony attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, homes of security personnel and defense factory workers, the Eilat promenade and port, and attempted to photograph military ships.

The Iranian agent instructed Amshukov to purchase an advanced cellphone for high-quality photography and provided thousands of shekels for this purpose. Additional tasks included placing hidden cameras in Haifa, recruiting taxi drivers, and intercepting a maritime package. The couple admitted during interrogation that they realized they were working for Iran but continued for financial gain. They were arrested in July during a joint operation by Lahav 433 and Shin Bet. The prosecution requested their detention until the trial concludes.

Israeli security agencies warned the public against engaging with foreign agents or unknown entities offering paid tasks, emphasizing ongoing efforts to detect and prevent espionage and terrorism activities.