Official reports or statements from the Israeli Defense Forces or related government bodies

Yuri Eliasfov and Georgi Andreev Arrested for Alleged Espionage for Iran Involving Iron Dome

Jan 27, 2025, 11:41 AM

Two Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reservists, Yuri Eliasfov and Georgi Andreev, have been arrested on suspicion of espionage for Iran. Eliasfov, who served in the Iron Dome air defense unit, allegedly began transferring classified information obtained during his military service to an Iranian handler in September 2024. Months later, he recruited Andreyev, who served in the IDF's Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, into the scheme. The two 21-year-olds from northern Israel are accused of transferring classified information and aiding the enemy during wartime. They were also involved in spraying graffiti and hanging banners in Tel Aviv with the slogan 'Children of Ruhollah,' referring to Iran's first supreme leader, Ruhollah Khomeini. Eliasfov filmed the Iron Dome system and received $2,500 for his actions, while Andreyev, who initially cooperated but later stopped, received $50. Both suspects admitted to the charges and were remanded in custody until Friday for the purpose of filing an indictment against them.