IDF Soldier Charged With Spying for Iran, Providing Sensitive Military Data

An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier, arrested in September, has been indicted on charges of severe security offenses, including contact with Iranian intelligence and carrying out missions under their direction. The soldier is accused of providing information to the enemy with the intent to harm state security, providing information for the enemy's benefit, and contact with a foreign agent.

According to the investigation, the soldier maintained contact with Iranian operatives for about a year, during which he supplied sensitive information about his unit's military activities, readiness data, and IDF alert procedures. This included details about his personal deployment during the "Roaring Lion" war. The soldier was aware of his Iranian handler's identity and received payment in cryptocurrency for his services.

During their communication, the soldier provided information on military bases and their coordinates, and photographed interceptors, military vehicles, and American refueling planes at an Israeli airport. He also endangered those around him by sharing details about his comrades and commanders, knowing his handler intended to recruit them for espionage. The soldier also shared a Telegram group for prospective Israeli recruits, which his handler joined.

The indictment states that the handler instructed the soldier to install malicious communication apps for encrypted calls and offered to procure a "dumb" phone and a handgun. They also agreed on encryption methods for calls and a cover story in case of discovery. The soldier was also offered $200,000 to travel to Iran. His detention has been extended until November 12.