Israeli authorities have announced the arrest of a 65-year-old man accused of spying for Iran.
The suspect, identified as Eduard Yusupov, was indicted on Monday for allegedly photographing sensitive locations on behalf of Iranian intelligence, according to a joint statement from the Shin Bet and Israel police.
Newsweek has reached out Iran’s and Israel’s foreign ministries for comment
Why It Matters
Israel and Iran have been engaged in a longstanding covert conflict, with both nations accusing each other of espionage and cyber operations. Iran has repeatedly targeted Israeli infrastructure and officials, often through third-party operatives. The latest arrest underscores Israeli concerns over efforts by Tehran to gather intelligence within Israel.
July 11, 2023, Tel Aviv, Israel, United States of America: Crowds rally in Tel Aviv in protest against justice system overhaul.
July 11, 2023, Tel Aviv, Israel, United States of America: Crowds rally in Tel Aviv in protest against justice system overhaul.
Orit Ben-Ezzer/AP Photo
What to Know
According to Israeli security agencies, Yusupov had been conducting surveillance operations since October. He was first approached by a man claiming to be an Azerbaijani living in Dubai, who recruited him for espionage activities. Yusupov was instructed to photograph key sites, including military bases, Haifa Port, the Haifa oil refineries, and the Negev Nuclear Research Center.
Operations Based in Haifa
To carry out his mission, Yusupov rented an apartment in Haifa overlooking the port, allowing him to monitor activities in the area. While he reportedly suspected he was working for a hostile entity, he continued following his handlers’ instructions. The Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security service, stated that these handlers were Iranian intelligence agents.
Payments in Cryptocurrency
Yusupov was allegedly paid in cryptocurrency, receiving tens of thousands of dollars to maintain secrecy. The use of digital currency made it more difficult for authorities to trace the financial transactions back to Iranian intelligence networks.
A large container ship head out of the harbor in Haifa in Israel, Sunday, June 1, 2014.
A large container ship head out of the harbor in Haifa in Israel, Sunday, June 1, 2014.
Robert E. Klein/AP Photo
Iranian Espionage in Israel
This case is not the first instance of Iranian intelligence recruiting Israeli citizens for spying. Last month, 29-year-old Dorov Bokobza was arrested after contacting Iranian operatives to sell them classified information. Israeli authorities charged him with contacting a foreign agent and providing intelligence to the enemy.
In another case, 73-year-old Moti Maman was sentenced to prison for allegedly spying for Iran and plotting to assassinate senior Israeli officials, including the prime minister and the defense minister.
What People Are Saying
Israeli security officials said in a statement: “The Shin Bet and Israel Police again warn citizens and residents of the State of Israel against maintaining contact with foreign entities from enemy states and/or unidentified sources, let alone carrying out missions for them in exchange for payment or any other reason.”
Ronen Solomon, Israeli intelligence analyst posted on X: “Both in Israel and when travelling abroad, don’t think that Iranian intelligence only speaks Persian. They may sit next to you in a hotel or casino and chat in your language as well.”
What Happens Next
Israeli intelligence agencies continue to investigate Iranian espionage networks operating within the country. Authorities warn that Iran is likely to persist in its efforts to recruit Israeli citizens for intelligence gathering. Meanwhile, Yusupov’s legal proceedings will determine the full extent of his involvement and potential sentencing.