Israel’s security forces have enlisted prominent Jewish rabbis to help counter Iranian espionage and recruitment efforts inside the country. The initiative follows reports that Iranian agents are using the internet and social media to lure Israelis into photographing sensitive sites, hiding weapons, or carrying out attacks. Rabbi Igal Cohen, a member of Israel’s Chief Rabbinical Council, released a video warning followers not to fall into such traps, calling the acts both criminal and religiously forbidden. The campaign also involves other influential figures from the ultra-Orthodox community, including Israel Cohen, who helped connect rabbis with security officials.

Authorities have opened more than 60 espionage-related cases in recent months involving soldiers, civilians, and members of various communities. Investigations reveal that Iranian operatives often use Telegram and fake SMS messages to target individuals, offering money for seemingly harmless photos before demanding sensitive military or infrastructure information. Several arrests have been made, including a U.S. student, Israeli soldiers, and civilians accused of leaking data or plotting attacks.

One of the most notable cases involves two brothers accused of using ChatGPT to forge intelligence documents and spread false claims about Iran’s president’s death, allegedly for payment in digital currency. Their court hearing is scheduled for Sunday.