Drama in Elad: Masked Security Forces Arrest Haredi Youth on Suspicion of Contact with Foreign Agent

A dramatic scene unfolded in the Haredi city of Elad late Saturday night as masked special security forces, accompanied by police, raided a local residence and arrested a young Haredi man.

The operation, which took place after midnight, initially drew dozens of local protesters to the scene. According to reports, the crowd believed the masked officers were Military Police seeking to arrest a yeshiva student for draft evasion (desertion).

However, it quickly became apparent that this was not a standard police matter or an issue regarding military service status. Security officials confirmed the detainee is suspected of severe security offenses.

Following the arrest, the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court issued a gag order at the request of the Central Unit of the Judea and Samaria (S.H.Y.) District Police. The order prohibits the publication of any details regarding the investigation or the suspect's identity. However, it was revealed that the file involves suspicion of "contact with a foreign agent."

The suspect was placed in a security vehicle by the special forces and taken for immediate interrogation.

This arrest follows a case cleared for publication two weeks ago, in which a resident of Rishon LeZion was arrested in a joint operation by the Shin Bet and the Israel Police. That suspect was accused of committing security offenses under the direction of Iranian intelligence elements. Investigations revealed he had been in contact with Iranian agents for months, performing various tasks in exchange for payment. Security officials estimated those tasks were part of an intelligence-gathering effort targeting former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.