Israeli Businessman Accused in Assassination Plot

Israeli authorities have thwarted an assassination plot linked to Iranian intelligence that targeted high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The suspect, Moti Maman, a 73-year-old businessman from Ashkelon, is accused of illegally entering Iran via Turkey to collaborate with Iranian operatives on attack plans, allegedly motivated by the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July. Maman reportedly sought $1 million for his services and discussed various strategies, including acting as a financial courier and recruiting a Mossad double agent. His clandestine meetings included contacts with an Iranian intelligence officer and an unnamed businessman. Israeli police stated Maman had traveled to Iran twice, smuggled through the Turkey-Iran border, and received $558,000 for his efforts. The operation highlights ongoing tensions and retaliation strategies between Israel and Iran.