Israeli Police and Intelligence Prevent $1 Million Plot to Assassinate Leaders

Israeli police and intelligence agencies have reported the thwarting of an Iranian assassination plot targeting high-profile leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The operation allegedly involved Moti Maman, a 73-year-old businessman from Ashkelon, who is accused of illicitly traveling to Iran via Turkey to engage with Iranian intelligence officials orchestrating potential attacks.

According to officials, discussions during these clandestine meetings revolved around plans to retaliate against several key figures. These included Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Shin Bet intelligence chief Ronen Bar, and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. The retaliation was reportedly triggered by the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniya in Tehran in July, an act for which Iran has held Israel responsible.

In a joint statement, police and the Shin Bet accused Maman of exploring various options, such as acting as a financial courier and identifying both Russian and American operatives to eliminate Iran’s adversaries in Europe and the U.S. Furthermore, the authorities alleged that he attempted to recruit a double agent within Mossad, Israel’s national intelligence agency.

Maman’s interactions included contacts with an Iranian businessman known only as Eddie, as well as an individual named Hajjah, described as an Iranian intelligence officer. He is said to have traveled to Iran on two occasions, specifically in May and August of 2024, after preliminary meetings with Eddie’s representatives in Turkey, the first of which occurred in the city of Samandag in April 2024.

The smuggling incidents reportedly involved Maman making his way through the Turkey-Iran border, with the latter trip taking place while concealed inside a truck cabin. Police disclosed that during discussions, Maman requested an advance payment of $1 million before he would engage in any activities. However, Iranian representatives declined his proposal, stating they would contact him at a later date.

For his participation in the meetings with Iranian officials, Maman allegedly received approximately €558,000, which is equivalent to about $558,000. Following these revelations, Israeli authorities formally indicted Maman on September 19.

A senior Shin Bet official characterized the situation as “very serious,” emphasizing that security assessments indicate that Iranian operatives will persist in trying to recruit individuals within Israel. This recruitment effort is expected to focus on those with criminal backgrounds who might be willing to assist in intelligence gathering and carrying out terrorist operations.

The unfolding events have raised concerns in Israel regarding the potential for further attempts by Iranian intelligence to infiltrate and destabilize the country’s security framework. As the situation develops, Israeli authorities remain vigilant, monitoring for any additional threats or plots stemming from Iranian operatives.

This incident underscores the heightened tensions in the region and highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, intertwined with broader geopolitical dynamics. The activities of individuals like Moti Maman exemplify the lengths to which some may go to engage with foreign intelligence agencies and the potential consequences of such actions on national security.

As the investigation continues, Israeli security forces are likely to enhance measures aimed at countering similar threats and preventing future plots aimed at its leaders. The gravity of the situation has reverberated throughout the security community, necessitating a comprehensive response to an evolving threat landscape.

Source: ABC News