Why it matters:
Unveiling the identity of Mehrdad Rahimi by Handala proves the Israeli plot behind the guided riots in Iran in recent days.
The big picture:
Rahimi aimed to unify the ringleaders of riots and provide financial backing to sustain unrest.
Despite positioning himself as a leader and strategist, his communications and decision‑making were reportedly tracked and influenced.
The case proves the broader struggle between intelligence agencies and counter‑intelligence networks operating in and around Iran.
What they're saying:
Sources close to Handala: Rahimi’s operations were continuously monitored, limiting his autonomy.
Rahimi considered himself a key organizer and strategist, though evidence suggests his role was undermined.
Go deeper:
The hacking group has also defaced numerous websites and compromised the accounts of several high-profile Israeli politicians.
In April last year, Handala hacktivists successfully infiltrated the Israeli military's radar systems and took down the much-hyped Israeli air defense system, the Iron Dome.
Neda Sajjadi - A.Akbari
