An Israeli citizen has been arrested for allegedly participating in an Iranian plot to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials.
The suspect, a businessman, was smuggled into Iran twice, in April and May, and reportedly received payment to carry out espionage missions, BBC said.
Israeli security services arrested the suspect last month, accusing him of targeting Netanyahu, Defense Minister Gallant, and the head of Israel’s security agency Shin Bet.
The suspect had been living in Turkey, where local contacts helped him enter Iran to meet Iranian intelligence agents.
In Iran, the businessman met “Eddie,” an Iranian intelligence agent, and discussed various missions targeting high-ranking Israeli officials.
Iranian agents allegedly requested the suspect photograph crowded areas in Israel, transfer money, and carry out assassinations. The assassination targets reportedly included former Prime Minister Bennett, in retaliation for Hamas leader Haniyeh’s death in July 2024.
The investigation revealed the suspect demanded an upfront payment of USD one million for his participation in the assassination plot.
The Israeli man allegedly received EUR 5,000 from Iranian agents for attending these meetings and planning the terrorist activities.
This case underscores Iran’s growing efforts to recruit Israeli citizens for espionage and terrorist plots against Israel.
The hostilities between the nations have been ongoing since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution however, tensions have escalated amid recent conflicts.