Israeli authorities have charged Bezalel Zini, the brother of Shin Bet chief David Zini, with allegedly smuggling cigarettes into Gaza during the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Prosecutors accused Zini of “aiding the enemy in wartime”, claiming he knowingly helped fund Hamas through illegal trade.
Details of the Allegations
According to court documents, Zini, a 50-year-old reservist on active military duty, allegedly smuggled 14 cartons containing about 7,000 packets of cigarettes into Gaza.
Investigators say he received about 365,000 shekels ($117,000) in return.
Prosecutors argue that the tobacco products were resold in Gaza at highly inflated prices, generating profits that may have benefited Hamas.
Smuggling Network Uncovered
The charges are part of a wider investigation into an alleged organised crime network involving more than a dozen suspects.
Authorities say the group smuggled luxury iPhones, car parts, electronics, and tobacco products into Gaza
