Kiryat Yam Man Accused of Espionage for Iranian Intelligence

A man from Kiryat Yam has been indicted for allegedly spying for Iranian intelligence, using his girlfriend’s military connections to gather sensitive information. On Sunday, the Haifa District Court received the indictment against Shimon Azarzar, 27, who is accused of transmitting classified military details to Iranian operatives over the course of a year. His arrest, along with that of his girlfriend, occurred in October 2023.

The investigation, led by the Shin Bet and the Israel Police, revealed that Azarzar sent photographs and coordinates of critical sites in Israel. Authorities allege that he exploited his girlfriend’s position as a reservist at an Air Force base to collect additional intelligence concerning Israel Defense Forces (IDF) facilities and operations. The charges against him include espionage-related offenses, such as unauthorized contact with a foreign agent and offering classified material.

According to officials, Azarzar received payments through digital transfers for his espionage activities. In a joint statement, the Shin Bet and Israel Police reiterated their warning to Israeli citizens regarding contact with foreign elements from enemy states. They underscored the seriousness of such activities, stating, “Israel’s security bodies will continue to identify and thwart terror and espionage activity in Israel, and will work to bring all those involved to justice.”

Second Suspect Linked to Iranian Espionage

The case has broader implications, as another suspect was arrested shortly before Azarzar. Investigators detained this individual on similar charges and discovered digital materials and 18 SIM cards during a search of his residence, which were reportedly used to communicate with a hostile foreign agent. Despite the evidence, the Magistrate’s Court opted not to impose house arrest on this suspect.

This second individual is alleged to have photographed various sites at the request of an Iranian handler, including the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Ganei Avraham Park in the Bavli neighborhood of Tel Aviv. Reports indicate he received thousands of shekels in cryptocurrency as compensation for his activities, further highlighting the ongoing threat of espionage linked to foreign actors.

The cases underscore increasing concerns about security within Israel and the persistent risk posed by foreign intelligence operations. Authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to combat such threats, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding national security interests.