Haifa Resident Ami Gaydarov and Accomplices to Be Indicted for Manufacturing Explosives for Iranian Agent

Ami Gaydarov and accomplices face charges for manufacturing explosives in a Haifa lab for an Iranian agent in exchange for $23,000 in cryptocurrency.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 9, 2026, 5:49 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Israel Police, Shin Bet, and JNS.org

Recruitment and Establishment of a Clandestine Laboratory

The Shin Bet and the police’s Lahav 433 unit have concluded a month-long investigation into a rare domestic terror plot involving the recruitment of Israeli citizens by Iranian intelligence. The primary suspect, Ami Gaydarov, allegedly initiated online contact with an Iranian agent in August 2025 and maintained the relationship through encrypted messaging platforms. According to investigators, Gaydarov agreed to manufacture high-grade explosive material intended for a lethal attack against a senior public figure. To facilitate the plot, Gaydarov reportedly rented a residential apartment in Haifa to serve as a makeshift laboratory where he could synthesize and test chemical components away from public view.

Financial Incentives and Cryptocurrency Payments

The investigation revealed that the relationship between Gaydarov and his Iranian handler was largely transactional, reflecting a broader Iranian strategy of exploiting individuals through financial inducement. Police stated that Gaydarov received payments totaling approximately NIS 70,000 (roughly $23,000) for his services. The majority of these funds were transferred in the form of cryptocurrency to evade traditional banking monitoring systems. This financial support was used not only for personal gain but also to purchase the equipment and precursor chemicals necessary for his clandestine laboratory operations.

Collaborators and the Scope of the Conspiracy

Gaydarov did not act alone, according to the prosecutor’s declaration filed on Thursday. At least two other Haifa residents, identified as Sergey Leibman and Edward Shovtiuk, are also in custody and expected to face indictments for their roles in assisting the laboratory's operations. Two additional suspects, whose identities remain protected under a partial gag order, are also linked to the cell. Prosecutors allege that these individuals provided logistical support and participated in the procurement of materials, forming a cohesive unit that operated under the direct guidance of Iranian intelligence.