Israeli Soldier Indicted for Spying for Iran

An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier was indicted on Thursday by the military prosecution for transmitting information to the enemy with the intent to harm state security, transmitting information for the benefit of the enemy, and contacting a foreign agent. The soldier's arrest, which occurred in September, was announced in a joint statement by the Shin Bet, police, and the army. Investigators allege that the soldier maintained contact with Iranian handlers for about a year, carrying out missions at their request while aware of his handler's identity. He is accused of providing sensitive details about his unit's activities, alert levels, and IDF mobilizations, including circumstances of his own call-up at the start of the war. The soldier also reportedly supplied intelligence on military bases and their locations. According to the statement, he photographed interceptors, military vehicles, and American refueling planes stationed at an Israeli airport. Security services also accuse him of sharing information about his comrades and superiors, knowing his contact sought to recruit them for espionage. He allegedly shared a Telegram group for future Israeli conscripts, which the Iranian agent subsequently joined. In return, the soldier reportedly received money via cryptocurrency wallets, though the amount was not specified. The investigation also revealed the use of encrypted communications, codes, and the preparation of a cover story. His contact allegedly offered him $200,000 for a basic phone, a handgun, and a trip to Iran, though it is unclear if these offers were accepted. The military court extended the soldier's detention until November 12, 2026. The Shin Bet, police, and IDF described the case as a severe blow to national security and urged the public to report any suspicious solicitations for information or services in exchange for payment.