Israeli police and intelligence services have reportedly thwarted an Iranian plot to assassinate top officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The accused, 73-year-old Israeli businessman Moti Maman from Ashkelon, allegedly smuggled himself into Iran via Turkey twice to meet with intelligence officials.
The meetings reportedly involved discussions about targeting Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Shin Bet intelligence chief Ronen Bar, and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. According to police and Shin Bet, these alleged plots were intended as retaliation for the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which Iran blamed on Israel.
Maman is also accused of exploring other illegal activities, such as acting as a money courier, targeting opposition elements in Europe and the U.S., and recruiting a Mossad double agent. He allegedly entered Iran in May and August 2024 after meeting with Iranian representatives in Turkey.
During one trip, he was smuggled in a truck cabin across the Turkey-Iran border. Maman purportedly requested $1 million in advance for his involvement, though Iranian agents refused, offering €558,000 for attending meetings.
On Sept. 19, Maman was indicted, with authorities warning that Iran will likely continue its efforts to recruit operatives for terrorist missions in Israel.
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