In a major security operation, Israeli authorities have arrested a Jerusalem resident accused of working as an Iranian spy and planning potential terror attacks. The suspect allegedly sought weapons and studied bomb-making techniques while carrying out reconnaissance missions across Israel.
The Shin Bet and Israel Police announced that Ardler (Israel) Amoyal, 23, was detained in November following an investigation into his contacts with Iranian intelligence operatives.
Authorities say Amoyal connected with his handlers through social media, initially chatting with a profile named "Ariana" before being transferred to an operator known as "John."
Despite allegedly knowing he was communicating with Iranian agents, investigators say Amoyal agreed to carry out various tasks for payment in cryptocurrency. These included:
- Photographing locations in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Netanya
- Spraying "Sinwar" graffiti in Tel Aviv
- Documenting potential targets with a GoPro camera
- Searching for weapons and bomb-making materials online
- Scouting vulnerable points along Jerusalem's Light Rail system
According to the Shin Bet, Amoyal even offered to burn a police vehicle and discussed ways to disable the city's light rail power supply. He was also allegedly tasked with recruiting others, particularly those with criminal backgrounds, to assist in operations.
"This case exposes yet another attempt by Iranian intelligence to recruit Israeli citizens for espionage and terrorism," a senior Shin Bet official said. "What's particularly concerning is the suspect's willingness to carry out these activities while fully aware he was working for Iran, all for financial gain."
Prosecutors are expected to file formal charges in the Jerusalem District Court this week. Amoyal's detention has been extended until December 20.
Israeli authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious approaches, particularly from unidentified sources online.
