Tajik National Arrested for Alleged Espionage on Behalf of Iran
Behrouz Sobirgon, a foreign national from Tajikistan who also holds a Russian passport, has been arrested in Israel on suspicion of espionage for Iran. The arrest followed a joint investigation by the Malmab "Yamar" security unit and the Shin Bet, focusing on serious security offenses including contact with foreign agents and executing sensitive missions under Iranian intelligence guidance.
The investigation revealed that Sobirgon's involvement began in January 2023, coinciding with Operation Roaring Lion, during which he allegedly assisted Iranian operatives in achieving their operational objectives within Israel. Initially approached under the pretense of a legitimate online job offer, Sobirgon soon recognized he was engaging with Iranian security sources but chose to continue the relationship, deepening his involvement and completing numerous assignments for his handlers.
Sobirgon's tasks included documenting and transmitting real-time information about Iranian missile impact sites in Israel, aimed at enhancing Iran's launch accuracy. He provided precise geographic coordinates for significant locations, including the Azrieli Towers in Tel Aviv, and photographed the Port of Haifa. Additionally, he attempted to capture images of a classified security facility in northern Israel but was unsuccessful.
Beyond intelligence gathering, Sobirgon is also suspected of trying to recruit other individuals in Israel to join the Iranian intelligence network. This case highlights the ongoing concerns regarding foreign espionage activities and their implications for national security.
