Brother of Shin Bet chief admits awareness as subordinate claims full cooperation.
Bezalel Zini, brother of Shin Bet chief David Zini, admitted during interrogation that his subordinate, Aviel Ben David, proposed smuggling goods into Gaza and later informed him that such operations had taken place.
However, Zini claimed he did not initially view the proposals as criminal activity. According to interrogation transcripts published by i24NEWS, Zini acknowledged knowing about the smuggling but said he did not act to stop or report it.
Ben David, in his own questioning, reportedly alleged that the operations were conducted with Zini’s full cooperation.
“Why Did You Turn a Blind Eye?”
During the interrogation, investigators pressed Zini on how he failed to connect the offers to smuggling with the actual commission of crimes.
He confirmed that Ben David approached him twice suggesting participation in smuggling goods into Gaza. He also admitted that after the operations were carried out, he was informed and understood what had occurred — yet took no immediate action.
When confronted, Zini responded that in the moment he did not believe he was being asked to commit a crime. Afterward, he said, he realized the actions had taken place.
Investigators challenged him directly, asking why he turned a blind eye. Zini replied that he would address that “in the right place,” to which the investigator responded that the interrogation itself was that place.
Zini suggested during questioning that individuals may have exploited his surname and his association with the Uriya logistical support force.
“I feel and understand that they are riding on my back with my last name,” he reportedly said, according to a report by Channel 12 News.
Regarding financial aspects, Zini did not deny receiving funds. He stated that donations — including from Ben David — were used to support the Uriya Force during wartime, including purchasing spare parts, equipment, food, and providing assistance to wounded soldiers and bereaved families.
He explained that wartime conditions meant record-keeping was less structured and that he relied on numerous individuals and resources to maintain logistical support operations.
Investigation Ongoing
The case raises questions about oversight, accountability, and the handling of wartime logistics networks operating near Gaza.
Authorities have not yet announced final charges or conclusions. The conflicting testimonies between Zini and Ben David are expected to be central to further investigative and possible judicial proceedings.
