1 week ago
45
ARTICLE AD BOX
According to the police, Amoyal knew he was communicating with Iranian agents but consented to carry out operations on their behalf regardless.
By JERUSALEM POST STAFF DECEMBER 17, 2024 12:57 Updated: DECEMBER 17, 2024 13:15
The silhouette of a man, seen over the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran (illustrative)
(photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)
Police and the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) apprehended a 23-year-old resident of Jerusalem on suspicion that he had carried out missions for Iran in exchange for monetary rewards, the police announced on Tuesday.
The police noted that the investigation revealed the suspect, Erdler Amoyal, was in communication with Iranian agents, primarily a profile named "Ariana," after which he was put in touch with an additional agent dubbed "John."
According to the police, Amoyal knew he was communicating with Iranian agents but consented to carry out operations on their behalf regardless.
His missions included, among other things, gathering intelligence information, spray-painting graffiti with the inscription "Sinwar" in Tel Aviv, and photographing homes in Jerusalem, Rehovot, and Netanya.
Shin Bet, Police address arrest
"This investigation reveals, once again, the efforts of Iranian intelligence elements to recruit Israeli citizens to promote espionage and terrorist activities in Israel, as well as the willingness of Israeli citizens to carry out missions under Iranian direction while being aware of the identity of their handlers, all in exchange for financial compensation," a Shin Bet official said.
"The Israel Police and the Israel Security Agency continue to focus and concentrate efforts on thwarting any activity that could harm the security of the state and the citizens of Israel," a statement issued by the police noted.
English (US) ·