Mossad Thwarts Iranian Terror Attack in Cyprus: An Inside Look

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a significant development, the Mossad, Israel’s intelligence agency, has revealed details about its successful operation to foil an Iranian terror attack targeting Jewish and Israeli targets in Cyprus. Through a rare public statement and the release of an interrogation video recorded in Iran, the Mossad on Thursday shed light on the operation and the subsequent cooperation between Israeli and Cypriot security agencies.

The plot, believed to be linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was intended to target Israeli and Jewish sites on the island. The operation was successfully disrupted through the close collaboration between Cypriot intelligence services and foreign agencies, including those from Israel and the United States.

The Mossad carried out a daring counterterrorism operation on Iranian soil, where it kidnapped the head of the terror cell, Yosef Shahbazi Abbasalilo. Abbasalilo, who received detailed instructions and weapons from senior Revolutionary Guards officials, admitted his involvement and provided a detailed confession during his subsequent interrogation in Iran. This valuable information enabled the Mossad to coordinate with security agencies in Cyprus, leading to the prevention of the planned attack.

A senior Mossad official reiterated Israel’s commitment to combating terrorism against Jews and Israelis worldwide, even on Iranian soil. The Mossad, known for its proactive measures, will continue taking decisive action to prevent attacks against Israeli citizens and Jewish communities globally.

The ongoing shadow war between Iran and Israel has seen numerous incidents and plots thwarted in various countries. Cyprus and Greece have been identified as potential targets due to the presence of Israeli tourists and sizable expat communities. In March, Greek police arrested two Pakistani nationals planning mass-casualty attacks on behalf of Iran against Israeli and Jewish targets. The Mossad’s assistance played a vital role in uncovering this Iranian terror network.

In October 2021, another Iranian plot against Israeli businesspeople in Cyprus was foiled. The hired killer, originating from Azerbaijan, had arrived in Cyprus using a Russian passport. Several individuals, including the main suspect and three Pakistani nationals, were charged in connection with the plot. Similar foiled plots have occurred in Georgia and Turkey, where Iranian agents attempted to assassinate Israelis.

Despite its own territorial conflict, Cyprus is resolute in preventing security breaches that could enable attacks. The recent foiled terror plot demonstrates Cyprus’ commitment to ensuring the safety of its residents and visitors, and its refusal to allow conflicts to be exploited for illicit activities.

The Mossad’s successful operation to thwart an Iranian terror attack in Cyprus highlights the ongoing shadow war between Iran and Israel. The release of the interrogation video and the public statement serve as a warning to those who intend to harm Israeli and Jewish communities worldwide. As Israel remains committed to combating terrorism, its intelligence agencies continue to work closely with international partners to disrupt and prevent such attacks. The collaborative efforts between Israel, Cyprus, and other foreign agencies in foiling this plot demonstrate the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.