Israeli Businessman Arrested in Alleged Iranian Plot to Assassinate Netanyahu and Top Officials
September 20, 2024An Israeli citizen has been arrested for allegedly being involved in an Iranian plot to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other high-ranking officials.
The suspect, a Jewish Israeli businessman with ties to Turkey, reportedly received funds from Iranian representatives for the assassination plans.
Iranian intelligence officials tasked the suspect with carrying out attacks on Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Shin Bet head Ronen Bar.
The suspect, identified as Maman, was indicted on September 19, 2024, with a senior Shin Bet official warning of ongoing Iranian efforts to recruit operatives in Israel.
During interrogations, Maman did not deny the accusations and expressed relief at being apprehended, acknowledging uncertainty about the potential consequences of his actions.
Authorities revealed that Maman received approximately $558,000 in euros for attending meetings with Iranian intelligence, despite initially demanding a million-dollar advance.
In meetings with Iranian operatives, various missions were proposed, including transferring money and weapons, photographing crowded areas in Israel, and intimidating Israeli citizens.
Hezbollah, acting as Iran's proxy, plays a key role in escalating tensions in the region and directly threatening Israel.
The United States is actively working to de-escalate the situation and has reiterated its support for Israel against threats from Hezbollah and Iran.
This arrest comes amid rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly following a series of explosions linked to the terror group that resulted in numerous casualties.
The geopolitical implications of these tensions could significantly affect stability in the Middle East.
The investigation into Maman's activities follows a significant Israeli operation targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing conflict and security challenges in the region.
Summary based on 18 sources
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Sources
BBC News • Sep 19, 2024
Israeli arrested over Iran plot to kill Netanyahu, Israeli security services sayUSA TODAY • Sep 19, 2024
Israeli charged in Iranian plot to kill Benjamin Netanyahu, officials sayFox News • Sep 19, 2024
Iranian Netanyahu assassination plot foiled, Israeli man chargedEvening Standard • Sep 19, 2024
Israeli man 'arrested over Iranian plot to kill Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu', says security forces