Israeli Prosecutors Seek Indictment of Tajik National for Allegedly Spying for Iran

The investigation into Behrouz Sobirgon highlights a persistent Iranian effort to utilize foreign nationals for intelligence gathering within Israel. According to security officials, Sobirgon's contact with an Iranian handler began in January 2026. While the relationship started under the guise of legitimate employment, investigators state that the suspect quickly recognized the hostile nature of the connection but chose to proceed.

Strategic Targets and Wartime Espionage The bulk of Sobirgon's alleged activity occurred during Operation Roaring Lion, the joint U.S.-Israeli operation against Iran that commenced in February 2026. Prosecutors allege that Sobirgon provided real-time operational intelligence to his handlers, including the exact coordinates of the Azrieli Towers in Tel Aviv and photographs of the Port of Haifa. Furthermore, he is accused of documenting the impact sites of Iranian missiles during the conflict to help the regime assess its accuracy and achieve operational gains. Beyond documentation, Sobirgon allegedly attempted to photograph a sensitive security facility in northern Israel and actively worked to recruit additional individuals for similar missions.

Patterns of Iranian Recruitment This case follows a series of similar indictments involving residents of Haifa and Bat Yam who were also allegedly recruited by Iranian agents during the same period. The Shin Bet and the Defense Ministry's Malmab unit (responsible for security within the defense establishment) emphasized that Iranian intelligence continues to use social media and deceptive job advertisements to lure individuals into espionage. The state has requested that Sobirgon remain in custody at the Tel Aviv District Court until the conclusion of legal proceedings, citing the severity of the threat to national security.