Tel Aviv:An Israeli soldier has been charged with espionage, accused of providing sensitive military information to Iran in exchange for cryptocurrency.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the soldier was arrested in September after a joint investigation by Israel's domestic security agency Shin Bet, police, and military into alleged espionage activities on behalf of Iranian intelligence operatives. The indictment was filed on Thursday, charging the soldier with passing information to an enemy with the intent to harm state security and maintaining contact with a foreign agent.

The investigation revealed that the soldier had been in contact with Iranian intelligence operatives for about a year. During this period, he allegedly provided crucial information about his military unit's activities, the army's operational readiness, and details related to military call-ups. This included information following the outbreak of war with Iran earlier this year.

Prosecutors outlined that the soldier shared specifics about military bases, coordinates, and photographs of missile interceptors, military vehicles, and U.S. refueling aircraft located at an Israeli airport. He also reportedly gave Iranian operatives information about fellow soldiers and commanders, with the knowledge that they might be targeted for recruitment into espionage.

Further findings from the investigation indicated that the soldier shared access to a Telegram group used by young Israelis preparing for military service, which was subsequently infiltrated by an Iranian operative. The soldier is accused of maintaining contact with an Iranian handler and receiving cryptocurrency payments for the information provided.

The Iranian operative allegedly guided the soldier to install encrypted communication apps and offered to buy him a mobile phone and a pistol. The duo reportedly agreed on using coded language and preparing a cover story in case their activities were discovered by Israeli security forces. Additionally, the soldier was reportedly offered $200,000 to travel to Iran.

An Israeli military court has extended the soldier's detention until November 12, with authorities seeking to keep him in custody until the legal proceedings conclude. This case arises amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran following the recent conflict outbreak.