Shin Bet uncovers Iranian spy ring with Israeli operative

An Israeli citizen from Beer Sheva was arrested recently for allegedly establishing contact with Iranian intelligence agents and providing them with information, the Shin Bet security service and Israel Police announced Sunday.

Doron Buchovza was detained following a joint operation by the police's Lahav 433 unit and the Shin Bet. According to investigators, Buchovza initiated contact with Iranian handlers several months ago and carried out various tasks at their direction in exchange for financial compensation.

The Southern District Attorney's Office has filed charges against Buchovza for contact with a foreign agent and providing information to an enemy entity.

Investigators said Buchovza misrepresented himself to his Iranian contact, falsely claiming he had access to Israel's Nuclear Research Center. He allegedly photographed an electrical cabinet and presented it as being from the Dimona nuclear facility. He also reportedly warned his handler about a potential Israeli attack based on information he had seen on Telegram.

The investigation determined that Buchovza was fully aware he was communicating with an Iranian operative and understood his actions could potentially compromise national security.

Security officials reiterated warnings to Israeli citizens about the risks of engaging with unidentified foreign entities, particularly from hostile states, noting that Iranian intelligence continues to attempt recruitment through social media and other channels.