Shin Bet Chief's Brother Arrested in Alleged Gaza Smuggling Ring
Bezalel Zini, brother of Shin Bet chief David Zini, has been arrested along with 14 other individuals in a police operation. The arrests are part of an alleged smuggling ring accused of shipping illegal goods into the Gaza Strip.
Allegations and Indictment Details
Authorities claim the operation involved a "systematic and sophisticated" effort to smuggle illegal cigarettes into Gaza for financial gain. An indictment alleges Bezalel Zini smuggled 14 crates of cigarettes, receiving approximately 365,000 shekels (around $117,000).
Other individuals arrested in the bust are accused of smuggling cellphones, car parts, and additional goods. The alleged smuggling ring reportedly included some Israeli reserve soldiers, as well as Palestinians located in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.
Authorities claim the operation involved a "systematic and sophisticated" effort to smuggle illegal cigarettes into Gaza for financial gain.
The Smuggling Chain
The alleged smuggling chain started with suppliers in the West Bank, moved through Israeli warehouses, and ultimately reached Gaza via Israeli military convoys, sometimes during operational activities. Prosecutors stated that, at other times, smuggling was conducted under the guise of operational necessity. The ring is accused of exploiting a large-scale humanitarian effort for aid and commercial goods entering the enclave.
Shin Bet's Security Warning
The Shin Bet internal security service warned that such activities "pose a significant threat to the security of the State of Israel." The agency argued that the smugglers' actions directly supported Hamas and other armed groups in the enclave, contributing to their survivability, governance, empowerment, and military build-up through profits from goods.
The Shin Bet also stated that these activities could help refurbish military production capabilities and create potential routes for smuggling weapons, technology, equipment, or for offensive military activity against Israel.
Defendants' Awareness and Motive
The indictment indicates that the defendants and their partners were aware that the smuggled goods might reach terrorist elements, including Hamas, and could be used to strengthen their power and finance their activities. The State Attorney’s Office alleged that the defendants acted for financial gain, knowing they were bypassing Israeli restrictions on goods entering Gaza as part of the war effort, despite the clear security implications.
Defense and Brother's Disconnect
Bezalel Zini’s attorney, Assaf Klein, stated that his client is innocent of the charges, describing him as a man dedicated to the state's welfare. Zini faces charges that include bribery and assisting the enemy during wartime.
Authorities have emphasized that no evidence connects the allegations against Bezalel Zini to his brother, David Zini, who directs the Shin Bet and has not been accused of any wrongdoing in the case. David Zini's appointment as Shin Bet director was previously subject to criticism due to his limited experience within intelligence, having been appointed directly from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Investigation Jurisdiction
Due to the relationship between the two brothers, the investigation into Bezalel Zini was handled by Israeli police. Cases against the other defendants involved a joint investigation by the Shin Bet and Israel Police.