Kiryat Yam Man Accused of Espionage for Iranian Intelligence

A resident of Kiryat Yam, identified as Shimon Azarzar, has been charged with espionage for allegedly gathering sensitive military information for Iranian intelligence. The indictment was submitted on October 15, 2023, at the Haifa District Court. Azarzar, 27, and his girlfriend were arrested in October under suspicion of acting under directions from Iranian operatives to collect intelligence on Israeli military facilities.

According to statements from the Shin Bet and Israel Police, Azarzar transmitted photographs and coordinates of strategic locations in Israel over the span of a year. He is accused of exploiting his girlfriend’s position as a reservist in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to gather additional intelligence on military operations and facilities.

The indictment charges Azarzar with multiple espionage-related offenses. These include unauthorized contact with a foreign agent and the provision of classified material. Authorities allege that he received payments via digital transfers for his activities.

In a joint statement, the Shin Bet and Israel Police emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Israeli citizens and residents should refrain from maintaining contact with foreign elements from enemy states or unidentified sources, particularly when performing tasks for them in exchange for money or any other incentive. Israel’s security agencies will continue to detect and prevent acts of terror and espionage, ensuring that all involved are brought to justice.”

The investigation revealed that Azarzar had offered to relay information from within military bases. He reportedly exploited his girlfriend’s access to classified knowledge regarding military operations and locations for this purpose.

Second Suspect Linked to Iran-Related Espionage

In a related incident, another suspect was arrested just a week prior to Azarzar’s detention on similar charges. During a search of his residence, investigators reportedly found digital materials and 18 SIM cards believed to be used for communication with a hostile foreign agent. Despite these findings, the Magistrate’s Court released the second suspect without imposing house arrest.

Investigators claim this individual had photographed several locations at the request of an Iranian handler, including the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Ganei Avraham Park in the Bavli neighborhood, and the site of a rocket impact in Ramat Gan during Operation Rising Lion. He allegedly received thousands of shekels in cryptocurrency as compensation for his activities.

As these investigations unfold, Israeli authorities continue to highlight the importance of vigilance against espionage and foreign intelligence threats. The ramifications of such activities pose significant risks to national security, underscoring the ongoing efforts by security agencies to safeguard the country.