Bezalel Zini, the brother of Shin Bet Director David Zini, is suspected of smuggling cigarettes into the Gaza Strip, a case that was cleared for publication on Tuesday. A prosecutor’s statement submitted against Zini and other suspects includes, controversially, a clause relating to aiding the enemy in time of war — though legal sources stress it is not yet certain this charge will be included in the final indictment.
The Ashkelon Magistrate’s Court extended Zini’s detention until Thursday, when prosecutors are expected to file an indictment. The affair was first reported last week by Walla. The investigation is being conducted by the Southern District Police, and a sweeping gag order on details of the case was in place until February 10.
Indictments Expected Against Additional Suspects
According to law enforcement sources, indictments against the other suspects involved in the case are expected to be filed on Wednesday with the Be’er Sheva District Court. Their submission had been delayed by a day due to the completion of investigative procedures.
Family Denial
Shmuel Zini, another brother of the suspect, publicly rejected the allegations. “We do not believe these claims,” he said. “My brother is clean, and we will prove it in court.”
Political Backlash
The case has sparked sharp political reactions. Likud MK Moshe Saada launched a direct attack on State Attorney Amit Isman, accusing him of acting out of political motives. Saada described Isman as “unworthy” and claimed he was systematically targeting figures from the national camp.
According to Saada, “The attempt to attach an offense of aiding the enemy — punishable by life imprisonment or even death — to a cigarette smuggling case is delusional and part of a political hunting campaign.” He further alleged that the move was intended to trigger a constitutional crisis or force the resignation of the Shin Bet chief.
Civil Society Response
The right-wing Im Tirtzu movement also weighed in, accusing authorities of politicizing the investigation. “Instead of dealing with the alleged offense itself, there is a cynical attempt to connect it to the head of the Shin Bet in order to oust him,” the organization said in a statement. “This is further proof of persecution against those who do not align with a certain camp.”
The legal proceedings are expected to clarify in the coming days whether the severe wartime charge will remain part of the case as it moves forward.
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