Israeli Couple from Ashkelon Charged with Spying for Iran After Filming Strategic Sites

The Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office filed espionage charges against Tamirlan Amushkov and Alina Kushnirko, a couple from Ashkelon, for conducting intelligence activities on behalf of Iran. Amushkov, an Israeli citizen, and Kushnirko, a Ukrainian citizen, were arrested in July during a joint operation by the Lahav 433 unit and the Shin Bet security service. They maintained contact with an Iranian intelligence agent and received payments in cryptocurrency for carrying out security-related tasks.

According to the indictment, Amushkov was instructed to purchase a high-quality camera phone in Eilat to photograph sensitive locations, including the Eilat port and the military cemetery on Mount Herzl. Despite understanding that their activities served Iranian intelligence, the couple proceeded with the assignments. Intercepted communications revealed their awareness of the potential terrorist nature of the operation, with Kushnirko expressing concern early on about possible threats.

The investigation uncovered that the couple initially received offers via Telegram to photograph public places for money, which escalated into espionage activities. Israeli security agencies have reiterated warnings against engaging with foreign agents from hostile countries, emphasizing ongoing efforts by intelligence and terrorist groups to recruit Israelis through social media and false job offers.

The case highlights continued Iranian attempts to gather intelligence within Israel, with authorities urging vigilance among citizens to report suspicious contacts.