The case, described as one of the most serious in the country's history, was uncovered following a joint investigation by the Shin Bet, Israel Police's Lahav 433 Unit, and Military Intelligence.
The suspects, all Jewish residents of Haifa and northern Israel, include a military deserter and two minors. According to allegations, they were operated by Iranian agents for over two years and carried out sensitive intelligence missions.
The suspects' identities:
1. Aziz Nisanov
2. Alexander Sadikov
3. Vyacheslav Goshchin
4. Yevgeny Yoffe
5. Yigal Nisan
6-7. Two minors whose identities were not published
According to findings, the suspects conducted hundreds of intelligence gathering missions on sensitive security facilities across the country, including:
1. Air Force bases, particularly Nevatim and Ramat David bases
2. Navy bases
3. Ports
4. Iron Dome system locations
5. Energy infrastructure, including the Hadera power station
6. The Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv
7. Golani training base
The suspects documented and photographed these sites, transferring the information to two Iranian agents known as "Elkhan" and "Orkhan." Additionally, they received maps of other strategic sites from their handlers.
According to security officials, the suspects were aware that the information they were transmitting compromised state security and could assist the enemy in a potential missile attack. In exchange for their activities, the suspects received payments of hundreds of thousands of dollars, partly through cryptocurrency.
The operation also included gathering intelligence on specific Israeli citizens, including surveillance. In one instance, some network members were arrested while attempting to collect intelligence on an Israeli citizen. Security officials believe the Iranians planned to harm that individual.
To carry out their missions, the suspects purchased advanced and specialized equipment under the guidance of Iranian agents.
The State Prosecutor's Office emphasizes that this is one of the most serious cases investigated in recent years. The case is being closely overseen by the head of the security team at the Haifa District Prosecutor's Office, Adv. Shelly Barzilai-Zeevi, Adv. Einav Itesco Gold, and the Deputy State Attorney for Special Functions, Alon Altman.
The indictment, expected to be filed at the Haifa District Court on Friday, will include a series of serious security offenses. This case joins several other recently exposed cases, some of which have already led to indictments and requests for detention until the end of proceedings.
The State Prosecutor's Office emphasizes its uncompromising fight against anyone seeking to harm state security. The investigation and arrests highlight the ongoing threat of foreign espionage activity in Israel and the continuous efforts of security forces to thwart these threats.
This development raises many questions about the scope of Iranian espionage activities in Israel and the effectiveness of existing defense mechanisms. It also emphasizes the need for constant vigilance from both the public and security authorities.
As the trial progresses, additional details about the scope of activities and potential damage to state security are expected to be revealed.
