Spy scandal at Ben Gurion Airport: Russia claims arrested man is Israeli citizen

The name of Artem Kirpichenok, the historian and writer who was reported missing in Russia after landing in Israel last month, was linked today to a serious security affair, details of which were partially cleared for publication. Reports in Russia and international media indicate that the indictment filed today against an Israeli citizen for working with foreign intelligence refers to Kirpichenok, who landed in the country on August 2 and has been out of contact since.

According to reports from Russian media outlets, Kirpichenok was arrested by Shin Bet investigators immediately upon landing at the airport on suspicion of maintaining ties with a foreign agent and committing espionage offenses. The case caused a stir in Moscow earlier this month, when friends and human rights activists called for assistance in locating him, claiming that the Russian embassy in Israel had approached authorities to clarify the circumstances of his disappearance at Ben Gurion Airport.

Kirpichenok, 51, is a dual citizen of Russia and Israel. He previously lived in Israel for approximately 15 years, served in the IDF, and studied at the Hebrew University. In recent years, he returned to Russia and became known for his sharp anti-Israel positions published on social media. According to reports, he has been held in detention without contact with the outside world since his arrival in Israel, until the filing of the indictment today by the Central District Attorney's Office.

Israeli security officials confirmed today that an Israeli citizen was arrested on suspicion of acting on behalf of foreign intelligence and engaging in "foreign influence activity" against the state.