Emmanuel OchayiIsraeli Arrested for Alleged Plot to Assassinate Netanyahu
In a shocking turn of events, Israeli authorities have arrested an Israeli citizen allegedly recruited by Iranian intelligence to assassinate key Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The arrest highlights growing concerns over Iran’s efforts to infiltrate Israeli security.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe police and Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security service, released a joint statement on Thursday detailing the arrest. According to the statement, the suspect had been in contact with Iranian agents and tasked with gathering information on top Israeli officials.
Recruitment by Iranian Intelligence
The Israeli citizen, who reportedly lived in Turkey for an extended period, was allegedly recruited by Iranian intelligence. “He was smuggled into Iran on two separate occasions, where he received payments for carrying out various missions,” said a spokesperson for Shin Bet.
Among the assassination targets were Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar. These names reflect the high-level nature of the plot, which aimed to disrupt Israel’s top leadership.
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According to Israeli authorities, the suspect was first introduced to an Iranian businessman named Eddie during his initial visit to Iran in May 2024. During this time, he also met with another figure, Hajjah, who was reportedly linked to Iranian security forces.
The Assassination Plot of Netanyahu
The investigation revealed that Iranian intelligence tasked the arrested man with conducting surveillance and other operations within Israel. These tasks included photographing crowded public areas, transferring money or weapons, and recruiting other Israeli citizens for Iranian missions. The Israeli man was also involved in efforts to recruit members of Mossad, Israel’s national intelligence agency, to act as double agents.
“This is a very serious case that exemplifies the enormous efforts of Iranian intelligence agents to recruit Israeli citizens to promote terrorist activities in Israel,” a senior Shin Bet official remarked.
Second Trip to Iran and New Instructions
In August 2024, the Israeli suspect made a second trip to Iran. He was smuggled into the country via a lorry, where he met additional Iranian agents. It was during this trip that the plan to carry out assassinations was solidified. Among the targets was Prime Minister Netanyahu.
The assassination plans were described as potential acts of revenge for the killing of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July 2024. Iran and Hamas had accused Israel of involvement in Haniyeh’s death, though Israel has not commented on the matter.
Attempt to Secure Payment
Following these meetings, the suspect demanded an advance of $1 million to carry out the assassination plans. He was paid 5,000 euros as an initial sum and promised future contact with Iranian agents.
While the suspect was under surveillance by Israeli authorities, it was found that the plot extended beyond individual assassinations. The suspect had also been instructed to recruit other Israelis and carry out additional acts of terrorism on Israeli soil.
A Warning from Israeli Authorities
The arrest has heightened concerns about Iranian influence and intelligence activities in the region. “Iran is continuously seeking to undermine Israel’s security through espionage and terrorist activity,” said an official close to the investigation.
The arrest of the Israeli citizen sends a clear message about the seriousness of the threats posed by foreign agents, especially those working on behalf of Iran. As investigations continue, Israeli authorities remain vigilant against future attempts to infiltrate the country’s security infrastructure.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
