The plots have largely preyed on economically vulnerable Israelis with relatively weak social ties. In one high-profile case, police arrested two young men in Tiberias on June 15, according to the Times of Israel. The two were each promised $60,000 to assassinate a top Israeli scientist.

Israel launched a national advertising campaign on Wednesday urging its citizens to resist the lure of spying for Iran, warning that the consequences far outweigh any financial reward. The unusual drive comes a month after Israel fought a 12-day war with Iran over its nuclear programme and follows an apparent surge in efforts by Tehran to recruit Israelis for espionage.