‘Suspect supposed to journey for coaching in an Arab nation’: Israelis arrested in Ir

Israeli safety forces have arrested two Israeli residents on suspicion of working on behalf of Iranian intelligence, together with one suspect who allegedly maintained extended contact with a international agent and mentioned touring overseas for coaching.

According to a joint assertion from the Shin Bet and police, the arrests have been carried out in coordination with the Central District Major Crimes Unit. The suspects are recognized as Sagi Haik, 19, from Ness Ziona, and Asaf Shtrit, 21, from Beit Oved.

Authorities say Haik was detained in March 2026 on suspicion of contact with Iranian intelligence operatives and finishing up duties beneath their path. Investigators allege he had been involved for a number of months with an Iranian agent via on-line channels.

During that contact, Haik allegedly supplied figuring out private details about himself and members of his household. Security officers additional allege that he agreed to endure coaching in a Middle Eastern nation and was requested to recruit further people for operational duties.

The assertion added that throughout the interval of contact, relations of Haik reportedly acquired threatening messages from the Iranian operative. Despite the alleged threats, he continued communication with the contact, investigators stated.

As a part of the investigation, Haik can also be accused of involving Shtrit in helping with duties requested by the international handler. Shtrit was subsequently arrested on suspicion of aiding within the execution of one of many assignments.

Authorities say a critical indictment is anticipated to be filed towards each suspects within the Central District Court in Lod.

The case is the newest in a sequence of arrests in Israel involving alleged recruitment efforts by Iranian intelligence providers, usually carried out via on-line platforms and social networks focusing on younger Israelis.