IDF Soldier Indicted for Espionage and Passing Sensitive Intelligence to Iran
An active-duty IDF soldier was indicted on Thursday for severe security offenses after spying for Iranian intelligence for six months in exchange for cryptocurrency and financial rewards.
An active-duty IDF soldier was arrested in September on suspicion of committing severe security offenses, it was cleared for publication on Thursday. The Military Prosecution filed a formal indictment against him on charges of passing intelligence to the enemy with intent to harm national security, transmitting information for the enemy's benefit, and contacting a foreign agent.
According to the joint investigation conducted by the Shin Bet, the Ayalon Yamalaf investigative unit of the Israel Police, and military investigative bodies, the soldier maintained a conscious contact with Iranian intelligence operatives for approximately six months. During this period, he transferred sensitive operational data regarding his unit's activities, IDF alert statuses, and mobilization details, including information concerning his own mobilization following the outbreak of the "Roaring Lion" war. In exchange for his actions, he received cryptocurrency payments transferred to digital wallets according to his handler's instructions.
The investigation revealed that the soldier provided detailed coordinates of military bases and photographed interceptors, military vehicles, and American refueling aircraft stationed at Israeli airfields. Furthermore, he transmitted details about his peers and commanders in the unit, knowing that the handler intended to recruit them for espionage, and even added the Iranian handler to a Telegram group designated for military recruits.
During their communications, the handler instructed the soldier to install malicious encrypted messaging applications, offered to purchase an operational phone and a handgun, and agreed on covert codes and a cover story in case of exposure. The soldier was also offered the opportunity to relocate to Iran in exchange for $200,000. The Military Court extended his remand until November 12, 2026.
Shin Bet, the Israel Police, and the IDF emphasized the extreme severity of the security breach, urging the public to remain highly vigilant and immediately report any suspicious inquiries, requests for information, or offers of payment for services.
