Tel Aviv Resident Arrested for Alleged Collaboration with Iranian Intelligence

In a significant development in Israel, a resident of Tel Aviv, identified as Vladimir Verhovski, has been arrested on suspicion of collaborating with Iranian intelligence agents. The arrest was part of a joint operation conducted by the Israeli Security Agency, commonly known as Shin Bet, and the police’s Lahav 433 unit, which focuses on serious crime and corruption.

Verhovski, aged 35, stands accused of undertaking various tasks at the behest of Iranian operatives, with his activities including gathering intelligence on an Israeli citizen and plotting an assassination attempt on an Israeli scientist. Allegedly, he was promised a payment of 100,000 US dollars for the assassination. In preparation, Verhovski reportedly acquired firearms and documented some of his missions personally.

The ongoing investigation has revealed that the communications between Verhovski and the Iranian handlers were conducted in English. He was also instructed to purchase a specific phone for these exchanges. The suspect is aware of his adversarial role against Israel’s national security, according to the investigators.

Among his assignments, Verhovski is said to have sprayed graffiti, posted flyers, and installed devices intended for use in future missions coordinated by other recruits. He is expected to appear in a hearing scheduled for Wednesday at the Lod District Court, where the extension of his detention will be sought. The Central District Prosecutor’s Office is reportedly preparing to file serious charges against him.

The case has once again brought to light the potential for social networks to be exploited as platforms for espionage and recruitment by foreign intelligence agencies, such as those of Iran. However, it is noteworthy that many Israeli citizens who received suspicious communications refrained from engaging and promptly informed the authorities.

Superintendent Maor Goren of Lahav 433 described the incident as part of a disturbing trend wherein Israeli citizens are drawn into working for foreign agents. He highlighted the gravity of this case, stating, “This is another incident in a series of serious cases being investigated by Lahav 433 and the Shin Bet. The suspect had already armed himself with a pistol, magazine, and bullets, planning to commit murder in exchange for financial gain and subsequent aid from a foreign agent to escape to Russia.”