Israel Charges Two Ashkelon Residents With Spying for Iran

Israeli prosecutors have formally charged two Ashkelon residents with executing “espionage missions on behalf of Iranian intelligence” in exchange for cryptocurrency, marking the latest prosecution in a broader crackdown on foreign intelligence operations inside the country.

Tamerlan Amshukov, a 26-year-old Israeli national, and Alina Kushnirko, a 24-year-old Ukrainian citizen, were indicted at the Tel Aviv District Court following their arrest last month by major crime and international investigation units.

According to court filings, the pair systematically collected surveillance on strategic sites, civilian infrastructure, and the residences of security personnel under the instruction of an Iranian agent contacted via Telegram.

Covert Surveillance and Crypto Payments

State prosecutors allege that Amshukov established contact with the foreign handler several months ago, obtaining funds to acquire mobile equipment capable of high-resolution photography.

Investigators state that the couple traveled across the country to photograph sensitive locations, taking high-detail imagery “at the instruction and on behalf of” the foreign contact.

Targeted sites included the Eilat commercial port alongside Jerusalem’s Mount Herzl military cemetery and museum complex.

Financial compensation for the surveillance operations was funneled to the suspects using digital cryptocurrencies and direct cash transfers.

Escalating Intelligence Network

The indictment reflects a documented surge in digital recruitment efforts by foreign operatives targeting individuals inside Israel for low-level collection and physical reconnaissance, according to the Times of Israel.

Security services report hundreds of similar solicitation attempts over the past two years, with tasks ranging from localized property damage and facility photography to targeted assassination plots against public figures.

Authorities have recently issued warnings to several cabinet ministers regarding physical safety threats linked to foreign intelligence activity.