Israeli Soldier Charged with Espionage for Iran Involving Cryptocurrency Payments

An Israeli soldier has been charged with espionage on behalf of Iran, allegedly providing sensitive military information in exchange for cryptocurrency. The indictment was filed Thursday by military prosecutors, following an investigation by Israel’s domestic security agency Shin Bet, police, and the military. The soldier was arrested in September.

Authorities allege that over the course of approximately one year, the defendant maintained contact with Iranian intelligence operatives, passing along classified details about his military unit’s activities, the army’s operational readiness, and upcoming military call-ups. The leaked information reportedly included specifics about his own call-up following the outbreak of conflict earlier in the year.

The prosecution further claims the soldier shared precise data on military bases and their coordinates, along with photographs of missile interceptors, military vehicles, and U.S. refueling aircraft stationed at an Israeli airport. Additionally, he is accused of providing intelligence on fellow soldiers and commanders, with knowledge that Iranian agents might attempt to recruit them.

Investigators also found that the defendant granted access to a Telegram group frequented by young Israelis preparing for military service, which an Iranian operative subsequently joined. Prosecutors state the soldier knowingly maintained contact with an Iranian handler and accepted cryptocurrency payments in exchange for the disclosed information.

The Iranian operative allegedly directed the soldier to install encrypted communication applications and offered to purchase him a mobile phone and a firearm. The two reportedly agreed on coded language and a cover story to conceal their activities if discovered by Israeli security forces. Authorities indicate the soldier was offered $200,000 to travel to Iran.

An Israeli military court extended the suspect’s detention until November 12, though prosecutors are seeking to keep him in custody until the conclusion of legal proceedings. The case emerges amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran following the outbreak of conflict earlier this year.

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