Israeli Air Force Reserve Officer Faces Indictment Over Betting on Military Strikes in Polymeract Scandal

An Israeli Air Force reserve officer holding the rank of lieutenant colonel has been summoned for a hearing ahead of a possible indictment in the Polymeract betting scandal. The officer is suspected of placing bets on military strikes in Iran and Yemen using classified information accessed through his military role. This development adds to the ongoing investigation into illegal betting activities within the Air Force, as first reported by Channel 12 News on August 16, 2026.

The prosecution intends to file charges against the reserve officer, who was investigated alongside another reserve officer already indicted in the case. The scandal emerged after suspicions arose that IDF officers privy to secret information about upcoming strikes used this knowledge to gamble on the timing of these operations on the Polymeract platform. Security agencies, including the Shin Bet and Military Police Investigations Unit, launched the probe amid concerns that such leaks could endanger soldiers and pilots.

Polymeract is an online prediction platform where users wager cryptocurrency on future events across politics, economics, sports, and entertainment. Users can view other participants’ betting profiles and outcomes. The investigation revealed that several suspects, including civilians and reservists, allegedly placed bets on military operations based on classified intelligence. Previously, a civilian and a reservist were formally charged in this serious case.

The new suspect reportedly had prior acquaintance with another accused individual through joint employment, making him aware of the latter’s military reserve duties. The case highlights significant security breaches within the IDF related to unauthorized use of sensitive information for gambling purposes. The hearing will determine whether formal charges will be filed against the officer.