Authorities suspect Bezalel Zini, 50, smuggled about 14 cartons of cigarettes into Gaza during three trips to the territory, profiting approximately 120,000 USD. This information comes from an indictment released by Israel's Justice Ministry on 5/2.
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Bezalel Zini. Photo: Israel Times |
Bezalel Zini. Photo: Israel Times
Zini and his accomplices face charges of "aiding the enemy in wartime, engaging in property transactions for terrorist purposes, aggravated fraud, and receiving bribes". Israel's Justice Ministry highlighted that a key category of prohibited goods smuggled into the Gaza Strip is tobacco, which has channeled hundreds of millions of shekels into Hamas' coffers since the war began.
The indictment further states that this network also smuggled iPhones, batteries, oto parts, and other goods into Gaza alongside cigarettes. This extensive operation began last year.
Zini, an Israeli army reservist, is a member of the Uriah Force, an organization of volunteers that brought bulldozers and heavy equipment into Gaza for demolition operations. The indictment alleges Zini "abused his position", using the cover of transporting Uriah Force equipment into Gaza to facilitate cigarette smuggling. Zini's defense attorney maintains his client denies all allegations.
Israel maintains strict control over all goods entering Gaza, implementing a comprehensive blockade at the height of the war. This blockade led to widespread hunger and rampant smuggling. Cigarettes became a luxury item during this period. At the most intense point of the conflict, a single cigarette could cost up to 15 USD, and a carton of 50 packs could command nearly 15,000 USD.
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A man selling cigarettes in the Gaza Strip on 18/10/2025. Photo: AFP |
A man selling cigarettes in the Gaza Strip on 18/10/2025. Photo: AFP
Bezalel Zini is the brother of David Zini, 52, who heads Shin Bet, Israel's domestic intelligence agency. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed David in 5/2025, and he began his work in 10/2025.
Israel's right-wing newspaper Hayom criticized David Zini for his silence following his brother's indictment. The article stated, "He is not punished for his brother's actions. But he must inform the Israeli people of the truth about the treason allegations and other conspiracy theories, including those related to the ongoing indictment".
Hong Hanh (According to Guardian)
