Yaakov Perl, 49, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Israel, was arrested earlier this month in Israel. Authorities accuse him of spying on Iran’s behalf. The Shin Bet security agency along with the National Crime Unit of the Israeli police carried out a large, coordinated investigation. Based in part with that information, they completed the arrest. Perl is accused of relaying sensitive intelligence on the movements of Israeli public figures and sites to his Iranian handlers.
Perl’s work has made waves in recent years. By 2023, he was deepening his engagement with Iranian media on social platforms. Over there, he wrote incendiary material that unapologetically bashed Israel and its leaders. In January, he authored a piece defending Hezbollah – a terrorist organization. This was just a few days after Israel waged military action against the group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah. Shortly after the publication of this article, Perl allegedly made contact with these Iranian operatives and consented to work with them.
Investigators later disclosed that Perl had provided the Iranians with personal details about prominent Israelis. This made for some fascinating reading, including profiles on former IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir.
“He provided the Iranians with information on Israeli public figures and citizens, including former IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir,” – police and the Shin Bet
Perl’s engagements of Iranian operatives did not start recently. It was through calling the Iranian embassy from Morocco that he first established contact with Iran back in 2017, when he was living there. As the decade progressed, his threat letters became more severe. He was able to take videos and photos that gave his Iranian handlers a view into different places throughout Israel.
Perl’s attack was ideologically driven, and authorities contend that Perl’s actions were driven by a strong hatred of and opposition to Zionism.
“All based on ideological motives and opposition to Zionism,” – police and the Shin Bet
The U.S. State Department under Secretary of State Antony Blinken has recognized this, asserting their vow to always stand up for American citizens overseas.
“No higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens,” – U.S. State Department spokesperson
Perl’s arrest is one intelligence scandal involving espionage and foreign influence that has plagued Israel since its founding. As investigations continue, security agencies are vigilant in monitoring potential threats posed by individuals engaged in activities against national interests.
