State Prosecutor Upholds Serious Charge Against Shin Bet Chief's Brother

Despite internal and external criticism, Israel's State Prosecutor's Office has decided to maintain the severe charge of aiding an enemy during wartime against Bezalel Zini, the brother of the Shin Bet chief. The decision was communicated to Zini's legal team on Thursday.

Zini, along with others including reservist soldier Aviel Ben David and Amir Dov Halperin, was indicted in February of last year on the serious charge. The indictment alleges that Zini smuggled cigarette cartons into the Gaza Strip for NIS 365,000, exploiting his reserve duty position. The prosecution claims the defendants knew the smuggled goods could reach terrorist organizations like Hamas, thereby aiding their operations and funding.

The charge of aiding an enemy during wartime has faced significant judicial scrutiny, even within the prosecution itself. However, Zini's lawyers recently received formal notification that the charge will stand. Zini had also requested a relaxation of his house arrest conditions, a move the prosecution is expected to strongly oppose in a hearing next month.

In addition to aiding an enemy during wartime, Zini is also charged with prohibiting property transactions for terror purposes and bribery. The indictment against him and his co-defendants asserts their knowledge that the smuggled goods could bolster terrorist groups.