Israeli authorities have apprehended two individuals accused of placing surveillance equipment around the residence of Defense Minister Yisroel Katz and of moving a bag believed to contain an explosive.
The suspects, Roy Mizrahi and Almog Atias, both 24 years old and residents of the northern Israeli city of Nesher, were taken into custody over allegations that they were conducting reconnaissance operations in Kfar Ahim, the hometown of Minister Katz, as part of a broader security breach investigation.
According to findings from the joint investigation by the Shin Bet and Israeli Police, Roy Mizrahi maintained communications with operatives tied to Iranian terror networks over the past several months. He allegedly carried out various missions for them, some with the help of his associate Almog Atias, in exchange for payment. Authorities emphasized that both men were fully aware they were acting under Iranian direction and that their conduct could compromise Israel’s national security.
Investigators revealed that Roy had been instructed by his Iranian contacts to carry out multiple assignments. Among them was the purchase of a new mobile phone and the installation of a special communication app to remain in touch. At a later stage, he was directed to retrieve a buried bag—believed to contain an explosive device—and relocate it. He complied with this request and transported the bag as instructed.
The Northern District Prosecutor’s Office is preparing to file formal charges against the pair in the near future.
A security official noted: “This case joins a series of recent incidents indicating repeated and ongoing efforts by hostile terror and intelligence entities to recruit Israeli citizens to carry out tasks aimed at harming the security of the State of Israel and its residents.”
The statement continued: “The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) and Israel Police reiterate their warning to Israeli citizens and residents against engaging with foreign entities and performing tasks for them. Such actions constitute serious legal offenses and endanger national security. All security and law enforcement agencies will act decisively to enforce the law against those involved in such activities.”
Defense Minister Katz responded to the news with praise for Israel’s security forces: “I commend the Shin Bet and Israel Police for thwarting the Iranian attempt to target me as Israel’s Defense Minister. Iran is the head of the terror octopus, directly and through the terror organizations it supports, promoting terrorist activities against Israeli leaders and citizens.
“My heart and concern are primarily with the hostages held vulnerable and defenseless in Hamas tunnels and with Israeli citizens exposed to Iran’s threats both domestically and abroad. I will not be deterred by any threat and will continue to fulfill my commitment to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to sever the head of the Iranian terror octopus and its proxy terror arms. I will continue to lead with determination in the fight for Israel’s security.”
{Matzav.com}