Israeli security forces have arrested a 73-year-old Israeli businessman, Moti Maman, on suspicion of being involved in an Iranian plot to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other top officials.
The Shin Bet, in collaboration with the police, revealed the details of the conspiracy on Thursday, September 19, 2024.
Maman, originally from Ashkelon, allegedly collaborated with Iranian operatives during two secret visits to Iran earlier this year. He was smuggled into the country from Turkey twice, in April and August 2024, after meetings in Samandag, Turkey, where he was recruited by an Iranian businessman named Eddie and Iranian security personnel.
During these meetings, Maman was tasked with “assassinating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar,” according to the Shin Bet’s statement. The Iranian operatives also suggested targeting former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, reportedly as revenge for the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31, 2024. Iran has blamed Israel for that attack, although Israel has not claimed responsibility.
The plot deepened in August 2024 when Maman was smuggled back into Iran by truck to meet with Iranian agents. At this time, he was asked to assist with surveillance and deliver threats to other Israeli citizens recruited by Iran. According to investigators, Maman demanded $1 million to execute the plot but only received 5,000 euros ($5,600) for initial meetings.
A senior Shin Bet official explained that “this case exemplifies the enormous efforts of Iranian intelligence agents to recruit Israeli citizens to promote terrorist activities in Israel.” The investigation also revealed discussions between Maman and the Iranians about targeting opponents of the Iranian regime in Europe and the U.S. and possibly recruiting a Mossad agent as a double agent.
Despite the severity of the accusations, Maman’s lawyer, Eyal Besserglick, maintained that his client had made “a temporary faulty judgment with no real-world consequences” and called for leniency.
The Shin Bet has Iran’s continued efforts to carry out terror activities against Israel, warning that uncovering this plot “does not bring an end to the danger.” The businessman was formally indicted on September 19, 2024.
The announcement of this foiled plot comes just two days after the Shin Bet revealed another attempt by Hezbollah to assassinate former Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon, adding to the escalating tensions between Israel and its regional adversaries.
