Israeli security authorities have announced the apprehension of a Russian individual accused of conducting surveillance operations on behalf of Iranian intelligence. The arrest took place in early December 2025.
Espionage Allegations
The suspect, identified as Vitaly Zvyagnitsev, is a 30-year-old Russian national who entered Israel using a foreign worker permit. He is alleged to have transmitted images of ports, vessels, and critical installations to Iranian operatives.
According to the Shin Bet and MALMAB, the investigation revealed that Zvyagnitsev initiated contact with an Iranian intelligence operative in October 2025. This operative, using the alias "Roman," presented himself as a Russian citizen residing in Moscow.
"The suspect carried out a variety of photography missions of infrastructure and ships in ports throughout the country, and more. In exchange for these tasks, he received money through digital means," the Shin Bet statement said.
Operational Details
Investigators found that Zvyagnitsev was aware that the information he provided could be used against Israel's interests. Nonetheless, "he continued to carry out additional tasks he received from his operator, this for financial reasons."
His surveillance activities reportedly included filming at numerous sensitive locations. These encompassed the Haifa port, military vessels belonging to the Israeli and US navies in Eilat, the Ashdod port, and oil refineries in Haifa.
Reports indicate that on one occasion, he was briefly detained by police while filming at the Herzliya Marina. He was subsequently released after agreeing to delete the footage, but allegedly continued his espionage activities.
His activities were ultimately halted when he was captured while attempting to film the Ramat David Air Force base, preventing the transmission of that footage.
Broader Security Concerns
In a related development earlier in December, Bat Yam Mayor Tzvika Brot issued a warning to local residents. He cautioned against cooperating with Iranian intelligence efforts to recruit agents.
The Bat Yam municipality has been in contact with security agencies, including the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), regarding the "possibility that our residents might fall into the net of Iranian intelligence," Brot said.
The residents may "cooperate" with Iranian handlers, "following all the messages they are sending to our phones," Brot commented.
"We know that there are also residents of Bat Yam who, these very days, are maintaining such contacts," he affirmed.
These residents are "endangering not only Israel’s security but also their personal future" by being in contact with Iranian handlers.
