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Updated 8 June 2025 at 19:51 IST

Iran Claims It Has Acquired Thousands Of Classified Israeli Documents

Iran’s Minister of Intelligence, Esmail Khatib, described the documents as a "treasure trove" that will significantly boost Iran’s offensive capabilities.

Reported by: Sagar Kar
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Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei | Image: X

Iran has announced a significant intelligence breakthrough, claiming it had obtained thousands of highly classified documents from Israel’s military, scientific, and nuclear sectors. The announcement, made through Iran’s state television, has sent shockwaves through the region, escalating tensions between the two long-standing rivals. Iran’s Minister of Intelligence, Esmail Khatib, described the documents as a "treasure trove" that will significantly boost Iran’s offensive capabilities. The operation, reportedly involving the recruitment of Israeli citizens, is being hailed by Iranian officials as a historic blow to Israel’s security.

Details of the Alleged Heist

According to Iranian state media, the operation involved the acquisition of sensitive materials related to Israel’s nuclear facilities, defense strategies, and international relations with major powers like the United States and European nations. While Iran has not provided concrete evidence to support these claims, the reports suggest that the documents were smuggled out of Israel, possibly with the help of two Israeli citizens, Roy Mizrahi and Almog Atias, who were arrested by Israel’s Shin Bet security agency in May 2025 for alleged espionage activities.

Khatib hinted that Tehran plans to unveil the contents of these documents soon, though no specific timeline was provided. The lack of verifiable details has led some analysts to question the scope and authenticity of the operation, with Israel yet to officially confirm the breach. However, the claims align with a reported increase in Iranian-directed espionage activities targeting Israel, including over 30 arrests of Israeli citizens in recent years for allegedly collaborating with Iran.

Regional Tensions and Nuclear Talks

This announcement comes at a critical time, as Iran and the United States are engaged in delicate nuclear negotiations aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. The talks, mediated through third parties in locations like Oman and Italy, have been described as challenging, with both sides struggling to resolve disagreements over uranium enrichment. Israel, wary of any deal that allows Iran to maintain its nuclear infrastructure, has repeatedly threatened military action against Iranian nuclear sites.

The timing of Iran’s claims has raised speculation about their strategic intent.

Israel’s concerns are heightened by its perception of Iran as a major regional threat, particularly due to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and support for proxy groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long advocated for a hardline stance against Iran, including potential military strikes on its nuclear facilities. Recent U.S. intelligence reports suggest Israel has been preparing for such a strike, though U.S. President Donald Trump has urged restraint to allow diplomatic efforts to proceed.

Published 8 June 2025 at 19:51 IST