A Haifa resident has been arrested on suspicion of carrying out missions for Iranian intelligence, including allegedly producing explosives intended to target former prime minister Naftali Bennett, read a joint statement issued by police and the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) on Thursday.
The suspect, identified as Ami Gaidarov, 22, was detained in March 2026 in a joint operation by the Lahav 433 National Crime Unit and the Shin Bet. According to the ongoing investigation, he had been in contact with an Iranian handler since August 2025 and carried out numerous assignments in exchange for significant financial compensation.
Authorities said Gaidarov was instructed to manufacture explosive materials, for which he rented an apartment in Haifa and purchased dedicated communication devices to maintain contact with his handlers. He allegedly documented the process with photos and videos, which he sent as proof of having completed the tasks. During the investigation, investigators found that he recruited others to assist in procuring materials and carrying out the planned assassination.
Several additional suspects from northern Israel, including two individuals identified as Sergey Libman and Eduard Shovtiyuk, were detained for questioning on suspicion of assisting in acquiring raw materials, concealing explosives, and even testing them. According to an i24 report, the suspects tested the explosives several times, including once at an underground public shelter in Haifa.
Suspect gathered intelligence for possible targets for Iranian strikes during war
Investigators further said that during Operation Roaring Lion, Gaidarov was tasked with gathering intelligence, including photographing the Haifa port and missile impact sites in northern Israel, and identifying a property overlooking the port for the possible installation of surveillance equipment.
Police said Gaidarov received over NIS 70,000 for his actions, largely transferred via digital wallets. A prosecutor’s statement has been filed, and indictments against him and others involved are expected to be submitted in the coming days.
The latest in a growing wave of Iran-linked espionage
The incident is the latest in a growing wave of espionage cases linked to Iran in recent months.
Earlier this week, an Ashkelon Magistrate’s Court allowed the publication of limited additional details from a sensitive security investigation involving several suspects alleged to have provided services to Iranian elements.
Other recent cases include two brothers accused of espionage on Iran’s behalf, an ex-police interpreter accused of passing along information related to Iranian missile strikes, and other suspects allegedly recruited to carry out intelligence tasks for handlers tied to Tehran.
Iranian hackers release materials taken from former IDF chief's phone
In related news, an Iranian-linked hacking group claimed Thursday that it breached systems connected to former IDF chief of staff Herzi Halevi and released dozens of photos and videos allegedly taken from his personal phone.
The group, calling itself “Handala,” said it had maintained prolonged access to systems tied to Halevi’s office, collecting large volumes of sensitive material.
Sarah Ben-Nun contributed to this report.