Israel arrests Russian for spying for Iran

Israel arrested a Russian citizen working in the country who allegedly photographed infrastructure and ships at ports under the direction of Iranian intelligence, security officials said on Friday

Vitaly Zvyagnitsev, 30, was detained in early December after allegedly carrying out surveillance tasks for an Iranian handler who identified himself as “Roman,” said the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) and the Erez Unit of the Defense Ministry’s security directorate, known by its Hebrew acronym MALMAB.

The suspect continued the missions despite knowing they served hostile purposes, in exchange for digital payments, officials said.

The Central District Prosecutor’s Office filed an indictment against Zvyagnitsev on Dec. 19. Israeli authorities said the case reflects Iran’s ongoing efforts to recruit Israelis and foreign nationals for espionage and terrorist activities.