Shin Bet Launches Drive Against Iranian Recruitment of Chareidi Spies
Israel’s Shin Bet has begun an awareness campaign in the Chareidi community after detecting Iranian efforts to recruit spies there.
Security officials have briefed rabbanim, media figures and local leaders that apparently harmless approaches may be part of an intelligence operation.
Iranian contacts have sought help photographing sites and moving items including weapons. Rav Yigal Cohen of the Chief Rabbinate Council said officials warned that some in the community risk harming themselves by cooperating.
He urged rejection of any such requests, calling betrayal of the Jewish people a grave desecration.
Younger Chareidim appear especially vulnerable, as they may be less familiar with foreign recruitment tactics and could view initial contacts as ordinary.
Warnings have appeared in Chareidi newspapers, radio programs and online posts after officials coordinated with community influencers. The Shin Bet confirmed it conducts awareness work across Israeli society to counter espionage threats.
