Police and the Shin Bet security agency have arrested a 13-year-old boy from Tel Aviv on suspicion of espionage and carrying out missions on behalf of Iran.
During his police interrogation, it emerged that in recent weeks, Iranian operatives had contacted the minor via the Telegram messaging app and asked him to carry out several tasks in exchange for money.
The boy complied with their request and, following their instructions, sprayed graffiti in the Tel Aviv area. He was also asked to photograph the Iron Dome missile defense system, but ultimately did not carry out that task.
At the end of his interrogation by police, he was released to house arrest. His parents were kept informed throughout the investigation.
Police and the Shin Bet emphasized that intelligence and terrorist elements continue their efforts to recruit Israelis via social media in order to conduct terrorist activity in Israel.
"Accordingly, we once again stress to parents that establishing contact with foreign entities and carrying out missions for them is a serious offense punishable by heavy penalties. You must remain alert and cautious to prevent the next case."
