Two Israelis Arrested for Alleged Collaboration with Iranian Operatives
The two are accused of carrying out subversive missions, including sharing classified military materials and spreading pro-Iranian propaganda. Authorities warn of growing recruitment attempts via social media
EUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration
The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet), together with Unit 433 of the Israel Police, arrested two Israeli citizens on suspicion of committing serious security offenses for Iranian elements. The investigation revealed that he two men, Yuri Eliasfov and Georgy Andreev, residents of northern Israel, carried out subversive missions, including transferring classified materials that Eliasfov obtained during his service in the Air Defense Forces.
According to the allegations, Eliasfov maintained contact with an Iranian agent for several months and carried out missions under their guidance in exchange for payment. Among the tasks he performed was spraying graffiti with pro-Iranian messages, such as "Children of Ruhollah," in various locations in Israel. He also transferred classified materials he obtained during his military service to his Iranian handler.
The investigation further uncovered that Eliasfov recruited his friend, Andreev, to join the subversive activities. Andreev accepted the offer and began carrying out tasks under the Iranian handler's instructions, including spraying graffiti and assisting in hanging signs with pro-Iranian messages. Both individuals were aware that they were in contact with a hostile entity, particularly given media reports about similar arrests of Israelis collaborating with Iran.
The Shin Bet and the police warn that Iranian elements are attempting to recruit Israelis through social media outreach and emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious approaches. This morning (January 27, 2025), a prosecutor's declaration was submitted against the two, and an indictment is expected to be filed soon.
The Israel Security Agency and the police reiterate their warning to the public against engaging with foreign entities and urge reporting any suspicious approaches, especially on social media. "We will act decisively and severely against anyone involved in subversive activities that endanger the security of the state," the agencies stated.
The case raises concerns about additional recruitment attempts of Israelis by hostile entities and underscores the need for public vigilance and cooperation with authorities.
