Arrest of Alleged Mossad Agent in Turkey

Turkey's National Intelligence Organization Announces Arrest

On Tuesday, Turkish security officials announced the arrest of Liridon Rexhepi, a Kosovan national. The Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT) has identified Rexhepi as the head of Mossad’s financial network in Turkey.

Rexhepi's Activities

According to Turkish media, which cited security sources, Rexhepi was involved in transferring money to Mossad’s field agents in Turkey. These agents were reportedly involved in filming Mossad targets with drones, leading psychological operations against Palestinian politicians, and gathering intelligence about the Syrian field.

How Rexhepi was Discovered

MIT reportedly discovered Rexhepi after noticing irregularities in his financial accounts. These accounts showed numerous transfers to Mossad field agents in the country via Western Union. During interrogation, Rexhepi also reportedly admitted to transferring funds from Kosovo to sources in Syria using cryptocurrencies.

Rexhepi's Arrest

Rexhepi was placed under MIT surveillance upon entering Turkey on August 25. He was then detained in Istanbul last Friday in a joint operation with the Istanbul police and was formally arrested on Tuesday.

Previous Arrests of Suspected Mossad Agents

Since the beginning of the year, Turkish authorities have detained and charged dozens of suspected Mossad agents, most of whom were Turkish nationals. Seven suspects were detained in January, six people were charged in March, and two others were arrested in April. Following the January arrests, a prosecution document cited by Anadolu Agency (AA) stated that the Israeli intelligence operation targeted "Palestinian nationals and their families ... within the scope of the ongoing Israeli–Palestinian conflict." In July, a Turkish prosecutor announced plans to seek up to 20 years in prison for 57 suspects charged with spying for the Mossad.

Mossad's Alleged Operations

The indictment stated that the Israeli agency created a remote, online operation team through mobile applications. This team was tasked with providing remote sources, transferring money via live couriers, and carrying out tactical operations against its targets in the field.

Bottom Line

The arrest of Liridon Rexhepi, who is alleged to be the head of Mossad’s financial network in Turkey, marks a significant development in the ongoing tension between Israel and Turkey. The implications of this arrest on the geopolitical landscape remain to be seen. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.