Shin Bet denies threatening Iranian-American author questioned at border

The Shin Bet security service denies an Iranian-American author’s assertion that one of its agents threatened him when he was questioned upon entering the country.

Reza Aslan said Monday he was stopped and questioned two weeks ago when he entered Israel from Jordan. He said he was accused of denying Israel’s right to exist and told “we can make it so you don’t see your kids for a long time,” among other alleged threats.

“The claims of threats made toward Mr. Aslan during a conversation and the claims any political questions were asked were checked by the Shin Bet thoroughly… and it was found they lack any foundation and have no basis in reality,” the Shin Bet says in a statement.

The Shin Bet describes the interrogation of Aslan as “short” and says his behavior aroused suspicion. It stresses it acts in accordance with the law in order to maintain Israel’s security.

“The actions of the Shin Bet at border crossings during the past year have led to the thwarting of intended terror and espionage operations by foreigners on Israeli territory,” it says.