A troubling security breach occurred during an IDF operational mission in the Gaza Strip, raising serious questions about the vetting of authorized civilian workers in combat zones.
An Israeli laborer of Bedouin descent, contracted to work in the area with full authorization from the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) and the Defense Ministry, was caught allegedly attempting to steal an FN MAG machine gun from an IDF vehicle. The suspect had already disassembled the weapon when soldiers became aware of the incident.
According to a report by the Torat Lehima organization, following the initial discovery, the soldiers detained the suspect along with the rest of his team, all of whom held valid security clearances for work in the combat zone.
Upon inspecting their cellphones, the soldiers uncovered images of sensitive military assets, including tanks, IDF officers, military installations, and the positions of defensive structures.
Security officials are concerned that this intelligence could potentially be exploited to endanger IDF personnel. The matter is currently under investigation by the relevant security authorities.