Ashkelon Couple Charged with Espionage for Iran Using Telegram to Spy on Israeli Military Sites

A couple from Ashkelon has been indicted for espionage after allegedly working under the direction of foreign agents via Telegram to collect sensitive information on Israeli security personnel, military bases, and infrastructure. According to the indictment, the couple documented emergency exits and camera-free locations at various sites and transferred the intelligence in exchange for cryptocurrency payments.

The operation was coordinated by an individual named "Aslan," who tasked one of the suspects, Amshukov, with surveillance and documentation missions across Israel, including locations in Beersheba and Tel Aviv's Ramat Aviv Mall. The couple gathered details on a security-related factory, emergency exits at the mall, and areas lacking surveillance cameras.

They also provided information on the promenade, port, and naval vessels in Eilat. The indictment describes how the suspects filmed the coastline and ships, some believed to be military, and sent the footage to the foreign agent. Subsequently, they were instructed to approach a closed military port and photograph naval ships, as well as to take panoramic images of a naval base.

Further tasks included documenting Mount Herzl and its access routes. The suspects complied with some of these directives. The investigation highlights the use of encrypted communication and cryptocurrency to facilitate the espionage activities.

The case underscores ongoing concerns about Iranian espionage efforts targeting Israeli military and security infrastructure.