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29-Year-Old Alexander Granovsky from Petah Tikva Arrested for Espionage and Sabotage for Iran

Dec 30, 2024, 12:58 PM

Alexander Granovsky, a 29-year-old resident of Petah Tikva, has been arrested by Israeli security forces on suspicion of espionage and sabotage on behalf of Iran. The Shin Bet security agency and the Israel Police's Lahav 433 Unit allege that Granovsky, who has a criminal past, was in contact with Iranian handlers via the Telegram app. He is accused of carrying out various missions including spraying graffiti against the Israeli government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, setting eight vehicles on fire in central Israel cities such as Ashdod, Rosh HaAyin, Ra'anana, and Hadera, and filming the entrance to former minister Benny Gantz's home. Granovsky reportedly admitted to his actions, stating he was motivated by financial gain, saying, 'I need money – they pay and I do it.' This case is part of a series of plots involving Israeli civilians allegedly recruited by Iran, aimed at harming Israel's security.