Israel’s Gaza Proxy Under Scrutiny as Shin Bet Chief’s Brother Is Accused of Stealing and Selling Aid

Arrest of a Senior Security Chief’s Brother

Israeli police have arrested Bezalel Zini, the brother of Israel’s internal security chief David Zini, in what authorities describe as a major bust of a “systematic and sophisticated” smuggling ring operating into the Gaza Strip. The arrest took place earlier today, with Zini expected to face a military tribunal hearing.

David Zini heads the Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency, making the case particularly sensitive given his role in overseeing internal security during the ongoing war in Gaza.

Allegations of Aid and Goods Smuggling

According to an indictment filed by prosecutors, Bezalel Zini allegedly smuggled 14 crates of cigarettes into Gaza and received approximately 365,000 shekels (about $117,000) in return. Prosecutors say cigarettes were among the most lucrative goods trafficked due to shortages inside Gaza.

Authorities allege that others arrested as part of the same operation smuggled additional items, including mobile phones, car parts, and other restricted goods, which were then sold inside Gaza at inflated prices.

Use of Military Convoys and Warehouses

The indictment claims the smuggling network involved Israeli reserve soldiers as well as Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. Investigators allege the supply chain began with suppliers in the West Bank, moved through Israeli warehouses, and ultimately entered Gaza via Israeli military convoys.

Some of the alleged smuggling reportedly occurred during active military operations, raising serious questions about oversight, abuse of authority, and the exploitation of wartime logistics meant to deliver aid or supplies.

Accusations of Exploiting Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis

The case has fueled accusations that Israel’s proxy mechanisms in Gaza are enabling the theft of aid and goods intended for civilians, who are then forced to buy them back at high prices. These allegations come as Gaza faces catastrophic shortages of food, medicine, fuel, and necessities amid Israel’s ongoing military campaign.

Critics argue that the alleged smuggling reflects a broader pattern of corruption and impunity within systems controlling access to Gaza, deepening the humanitarian crisis for civilians.

Wider Context and Controversy

The arrests come amid heightened tensions in Israel following the dismissal of a lawyer who leaked a video allegedly showing Israeli soldiers committing sexual violence against civilians in Gaza. Together, the incidents have intensified debate inside Israel and internationally over accountability during the war.

Israeli authorities emphasize that the arrests demonstrate the rule of law applies to all individuals, regardless of family connections. However, human rights advocates say the case highlights structural problems in how Gaza is administered and supplied during the conflict.

What Comes Next

Bezalel Zini and 14 others remain in custody as investigations continue. A military tribunal is expected to hear the case, which could have significant political and institutional repercussions given the involvement of relatives of senior security officials.

As the war in Gaza continues, the allegations have added to growing international scrutiny over Israel’s conduct, the role of its proxies, and the management of aid in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

Photo: Police Spokesperson/ Jerusalem Post

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