Israeli Soldier Charged With Spying for Iran

Israeli military prosecutors have charged a soldier with passing sensitive information to Iranian intelligence operatives in exchange for cryptocurrency payments, according to a joint statement by the Shin Bet, Israel Police and IDF reported Thursday. The case involves allegations of espionage, not a conviction.

The soldier was arrested in September after an investigation involving the Shin Bet, police and Military Police. Prosecutors filed the indictment on October 29, including charges of providing information to the enemy with intent to harm state security, providing information for the enemy's benefit and contact with a foreign agent.

Authorities allege that the soldier maintained contact with Iranian operatives for about a year while knowing his handler's identity. They say he provided information about his unit's activities, military readiness and emergency call-ups, including his own mobilization during the war with Iran earlier this year.

Prosecutors also allege that he sent details about military bases and their locations, and photographed interceptor missiles, military vehicles and American refueling aircraft at an airport in Israel. Investigators say he received cryptocurrency payments for information sent to the handler.

The joint statement says he also shared personal details about fellow soldiers and commanders, knowing the handler would try to recruit them. Authorities say he directed the handler to a Telegram group for prospective recruits, after which the handler joined it. These claims form part of the case against him and have not been established by a verdict.

According to the reported statement, the two discussed encrypted communications, code words and a cover story. Prosecutors say the soldier was also offered $200,000 to travel to Iran; the report does not say that he accepted or made the trip. His detention was extended until November 12, according to The Times of Israel.

The featured photograph is an illustration, not a photograph of the accused soldier.