A group of Iranian hackers is claiming responsibility for a cyber intrusion targeting the cellphone of Naftali Bennett, according to reports in Hebrew-language media.
The allegation surfaced after the hackers, identifying themselves as “Handala,” announced what they described as a successful breach of Bennett’s device, an operation they named “Operation Octopus,” Ynet reported.
In a statement cited by Ynet, the group mocked Bennett’s professional background in the cyber field. “You once prided yourself on being a leading light of cybersecurity, and displayed your expertise to the world,” the hackers said, referring to Bennett’s role as a co-founder of a cybersecurity company.
The message continued with further derision. “And even so, how ironic that your iPhone 13 fell so easily into the hands of Handala,” the statement said. “Despite all of your pride and boasting, your digital fortress is nothing more than a paper wall waiting to be broken.”
Bennett has previously used the phrase “the head of the octopus” when describing Iran’s role in orchestrating threats against Israel throughout the region.
The incident comes as Bennett, who previously served as Israel’s prime minister, is widely viewed as the most serious political rival to Prime Minister Bibi Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of elections expected next year.
