Germany summons Iranian ambassador over alleged espionage plot
Germany said on Tuesday it has summoned Iran’s ambassador after it arrested a Danish citizen suspected of spying for Iran and tasked with identifying Jewish targets in Berlin for possible attacks.
“We will not tolerate any threats to Jewish life in Germany,” the German foreign ministry said in a post on X, calling for a thorough investigation.
The Danish man, named only as Ali S in line with German privacy laws, allegedly surveilled three properties in June, gathering intelligence that authorities believe could have supported planned operations by Iranian agents.
“The accused was preparing intelligence activities, including the possible targeting of Jewish institutions,” the federal prosecutor’s office said in a statement.
It comes as Iran continues to attempt plots inside Israel and on Jews and Israelis abroad.
Israel Police and the Shin Bet announced Tuesday the arrest of a Ra’anana couple suspected of communicating with Iranian handlers and passing sensitive information via mobile and computer devices. Police said the pair had exchanged correspondence and were caught with encrypted materials and tracking data.
Three other men were also arrested in separate Israeli cases on Monday, with authorities alleging they shared detailed surveillance of civilian infrastructure, including mall layouts and security routines, with Iranian contacts.
Dozens of Israeli citizens have been arrested since the Gaza war broke out in 2023, accused of aiding Iran on plots including planned assassinations of political and military leadership and attacks on military installations.
Plots have also been foiled in countries such as Azerbaijan and France.
Inside Iran, the IRGC-affiliated Fars News Agency reported that over 700 Iranians were detained on allegations of collaborating with Israeli intelligence since the June 13 Israeli strikes.
Dozens of Jews have also been arrested as the pressure on Iran's 10,000 strong Jewish community continues in the wake of the 12-day war.