Israeli police arrested a citizen who was allegedly recruited by Iranian intelligence to plan the assassinations of high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The arrest was part of a joint operation by Israeli police and Shin Bet, Israel’s intelligence agency. The man, described as a businessman, had been smuggled into Iran twice and was paid for his activities.
According to the statement, the man had met with Iranian agents during his trips to Iran and was tasked with gathering intelligence in Israel. He was allegedly asked to transfer money or weapons and take photos of busy public areas.
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This arrest comes at a time of rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group in Lebanon. Earlier this week, explosions involving Hezbollah’s communication devices in Lebanon resulted in 32 deaths. Israel has since claimed responsibility for bombing southern Lebanon, saying it foiled an assassination plot supported by Iran.
As these events unfold, the possibility of a full-scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah seems to be increasing.