Israeli Police Seize Tens of Millions in 'Hand Shaking Hand' Union Corruption Probe

Israeli police announced a major development in the ongoing investigation into the Histadrut union corruption case known as "Hand Shaking Hand." This Monday morning, authorities seized tens of millions of shekels from the bank accounts of a public company and several of its senior executives. The police stated that those involved will be summoned for further questioning throughout the week.

One of the sub-investigations focuses on a public company suspected of promoting the signing and renewal of a pharmaceutical insurance policy within the Histadrut. The company allegedly provided benefits and payments to insurance agent Ezra Gabai, leveraging his influence over Arnon Bar-David to advance and repeatedly renew the policy, thereby increasing the company's profits.

Police reports indicate that the investigation's findings have strengthened suspicions against the individuals involved. The "Hand Shaking Hand" affair centers on actions taken by Gabai to favor associates in various local authorities and government offices in exchange for securing insurance contracts. The name of Minister Miki Zohar has surfaced multiple times in connection with Gabai, suggesting possible collaboration.

The scandal first came to light in November when police raided Histadrut offices and arrested senior officials and other suspects. Central to the case is an alleged quid pro quo system operated by Histadrut leaders and Gabai, with additional probes into suspected fictitious appointments. Amid the investigation, Histadrut Chairman Arnon Bar-David stated he would resign if indicted.