Israeli authorities have foiled what they describe as an Iranian-directed espionage effort, arresting an Israeli man suspected of conducting surveillance operations near the home of former prime minister Naftali Bennett.

Axar.az informs, citing Israeli media, in a joint announcement, the Shin Bet and the Israel Police said Vadim Kupriyanov, a 40-year-old resident of Rishon Lezion, was detained in December 2025 as part of an investigation led by the elite Lahav 433 police unit. Investigators believe Kupriyanov acted under instructions from Iranian intelligence officials.

According to security officials, the suspect photographed sensitive locations, including areas close to Bennett’s residence, and was asked by his handlers to acquire a car-mounted camera to assist in gathering intelligence. Authorities said the activity was part of a broader series of assignments carried out over the past two months.

During questioning, Kupriyanov allegedly admitted to transferring images taken in Rishon Lezion and other cities to his contacts abroad. In exchange, he received payments for completing the tasks, officials said.