Israeli authorities have expanded efforts to counter alleged Iranian attempts to recruit Israelis as intelligence assets, including enlisting prominent rabbis to warn their communities against cooperating with Iranian operatives, according to a report by The New York Times.
Rabbi Yigal Cohen, a member of Israel's Chief Rabbinical Council with a large social media following, released a widely circulated video urging Israelis not to respond to recruitment attempts.
"Heaven forbid, there are those who cooperate with them," Rabbi Cohen said, adding that security officials had asked him to deliver the warning. He cautioned that anyone contacted by Iranian agents should avoid any cooperation, saying such actions could lead to imprisonment and severe personal consequences.
Iranian intelligence agents have been attempting to recruit Israelis primarily through online platforms, offering payment for seemingly simple assignments before requesting more sensitive activities.
Police said prosecutors have filed indictments in more than 60 cases involving soldiers and civilians from a wide range of backgrounds, including both Jewish and Arab Israelis, as well as religious and secular citizens.
"A number of suspects have been exposed for spying for the enemy," police investigator Amichai Panetta said in a statement cited by The New York Times. "Some of them carried out their deeds during wartime and helped the enemy realize its plans on Israeli soil."
Among the recent cases is a US citizen studying at a haredi yeshiva in Jerusalem who was arrested on June 9. According to the indictment, he is accused of maintaining contact with an Iranian intelligence agent and photographing sensitive sites in exchange for payment.
Israeli police said Iran intensified its recruitment efforts following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 and increased them further after Israel's first offensive against Iran in June 2025.
Authorities say recruiters typically approach potential recruits through Telegram, initially offering money in exchange for photographs or videos before seeking intelligence on strategic sites and infrastructure.