Israeli security forces have arrested a 22-year-old university student on allegations of espionage for the Iranian regime, according to a joint statement released today by the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) and the Northern District Police.
The suspect, identified as Bashar Hassan Qassem Musa, a resident of Deir al-Asad and a student of information systems at Ben-Gurion University, is accused of maintaining prolonged contact with an Iranian intelligence operative. Authorities allege that Musa carried out a series of covert tasks under the operative’s direction, including an attempted attack on an individual, scattering nails on a major roadway in Beersheba, and inciting divisive public discourse.
Investigators say Musa’s actions were motivated by solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza and that he received financial compensation for his activities. The arrest follows a month-long investigation and is part of a broader crackdown on suspected Iranian espionage efforts within Israel. An indictment is expected to be filed in the coming days.
This case adds to a growing list of thwarted Iranian intelligence operations in Israel, with more than 20 plots reportedly disrupted since late 2023.
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