The allegation, unverified so far, raises renewed concerns over cyber targeting of senior Israeli political figures.

The claim was published online by the Handala Hacking Group, known for pro-Iranian messaging and previous cyber operations against Israeli targets.

Israeli security and cyber authorities said the matter is under review, with no confirmation yet of the breach or the authenticity of the material.

Claims Of Device Compromise

The Handala Hacking Group said it gained access to Bennett’s personal iPhone 13, asserting that the intrusion yielded extensive private and political material. 

According to the group, the extracted data includes a full contact list containing phone numbers of senior political and public figures, screenshots of private correspondence, and personal photographs of Bennett with family members and political associates.

The hackers also claimed to possess documents dated July 2025, including material critical of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. 

No technical details were provided on how the alleged breach was carried out, and no independent verification of the data has been made public.

Messaging And Psychological Framing

In its online statements, the group mocked the former prime minister, labeling the incident “Operation Octopus – it was an easy conquest.” 

It further described the alleged breach as “Bennett’s darkest hour,” language consistent with past psychological and propaganda-style messaging used by Iranian-aligned cyber groups.

The tone and framing suggest an intent not only to claim technical success but also to inflict reputational damage and amplify perceptions of vulnerability among Israeli leaders.

Official Response And Verification Gap

Bennett’s office issued a brief statement acknowledging the reports, saying only that “the matter is being handled by the relevant security and cyber authorities.” 

No confirmation was given that Bennett’s phone had been compromised, nor that any of the materials cited by the hackers are genuine.

Israeli cyber officials are assessing whether the claims represent an actual intrusion, recycled or fabricated data, or an influence operation designed to attract attention without substantive access.

Handala is a known pro-Iranian hacking group that has previously claimed responsibility for cyber incidents targeting Israeli entities, including data leaks involving insurance companies. 

The current allegation has been widely circulated in Israeli media outlets such as mako, Srugim, and HaMechadesh, as well as online forums, but has not yet received broad international coverage.