Israeli Security Agencies Detain Two Minors Accused of Spying for Iran

Israeli security agencies announced the arrest of two minors suspected of operating as agents for Iranian intelligence and transmitting highly sensitive information to Tehran.

According to Israeli intelligence assessments, the minors photographed strategically critical locations as part of an intensifying Israeli security response to Iranian espionage networks during and after the most recent war between the two countries.

The airport arrest that launched the investigation

The complex security case began with the dramatic detention of one minor upon his arrival at Ben Gurion Airport. Secret investigations conducted by the Central Investigation Unit of the Asher District, in coordination with Unit 433 and other security agencies, revealed that an Iranian agent had recruited the teenager online under the pretext of offering employment.

The foreign recruiter employed a gradual, step-by-step approach: initial tasks appeared innocuous—such as distributing leaflets—before escalating to demands for full photographic documentation of locations.

Joint field operations and recruitment expansion

As the relationship deepened, the first suspect successfully recruited a second minor residing in the same area. Together, they carried out dangerous field assignments, including photographing key strategic sites across central Israel, spraying graffiti bearing incitement slogans, and repeatedly attempting to expand their recruitment network to include additional minors.

The two suspects received financial compensation for these activities totaling several thousand shekels.

Prosecution plans and public warning

The Haifa District Attorney’s Office stated its intention to file serious criminal charges against the detainees following completion of the investigation and the establishment of a robust evidentiary foundation.

In parallel, the Israeli Police issued a warning about ongoing attempts by “enemy states” and hostile elements to exploit citizens—particularly minors—to harm national security. Authorities urged parents to exercise maximum vigilance regarding their children’s social media activity and to immediately report any suspicious contact.