JERUSALEM (JTA) — An Egyptian official said the country’s state security service has uncovered an Israeli spy ring.
The spy network includes an Egyptian businessman and two Israelis, Hicham Badawi, an attorney in the Egyptian state security service, told reporters Monday, according to Reuters.
The Egyptian was arrested in August on charges of spying for Israel, while the Israelis had already fled the country, according to reports.
Israel has denied the charges, Reuters reported.
Also Monday, an Egyptian official said four Egyptian citizens were arrested for spying for Israel and participating in a plot to kidnap tourists, thus hurting Egypt’s economy by disrupting its lucrative tourism business.
The Egyptian men, held since May, have given detailed confessions, according to Reuters. Two Israelis reportedly were their handlers.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.