An Egyptian businessman has been accused of spying for Israel and is facing trial in a Cairo courtroom.

Tarek Hassan, who was arrested in August, was charged with treason in connection with allegedly spying on Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. Prosecutors called him a “traitor.”

The court issued a gag order on Saturday to “safeguard national interests.”

The prosecution claimed he worked with Syrian agents to gather information about their country's nuclear program. He allegedly studied the communications industry in all three countries as well.

Prosecutors also accused Israel of recruiting spies in a time of peace. Two Israelis were charged in absentia by the court.

Israel told The Associated Press that it has no information about the case. Court was adjourned until Sunday, when the defense presents its case.