Israeli engineer Doron Buchbaza has been indicted for allegedly offering classified information to Iranian intelligence, including access to a nuclear research site. He initiated contact via Telegram and carried out tasks for payments in cryptocurrency. Authorities warn against engaging with foreign operatives amid rising espionage cases involving Israeli citizens.
Authorities have charged Israeli engineer Doron Buchbaza, 29, with initiating contact with Iranian intelligence and offering to sell classified information, including access to Israel’s nuclear research facility. The indictment was filed at the Be’er Sheva District Court, following his arrest in a joint operation by Israeli police and Shin Bet security agency last month.
Buchbaza allegedly contacted Iranian agents via Telegram, openly stating, “I am an Israeli and I want to work with you.” Investigators claim he performed tasks for his handlers over a span of months, such as photographing sensitive sites and providing publicly available information on Israel’s Negev Nuclear Research Center, falsely claiming he had direct access.
His activities escalated as he sent a photo of a communications rack, misleadingly claiming it was tied to a nuclear site. Buchbaza was reportedly aware that his communications posed a risk to national security. After learning of similar cases involving Israeli soldiers, he deleted his communications but later re-established contact.
Israel’s Shin Bet and police issued a warning, advising citizens against engaging with foreign contacts associated with enemy states. “Iranian intelligence and terrorist operatives continue efforts to recruit Israelis for espionage and security-related tasks,” highlighting the use of social media for recruitment.
This case is among several involving Israeli citizens and reservists allegedly recruited by Iranian forces. While some have resulted in indictments, others remain under investigation, emphasizing the ongoing threat of espionage by foreign entities.
The indictment of Doron Buchbaza highlights the persistent threat of foreign espionage efforts targeting Israeli citizens. His case exemplifies the tactics used by Iranian intelligence to recruit individuals through social media. Israeli security agencies are committed to identifying and thwarting such operations to protect national security.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
