Shas MK Haim Biton Investigated for Alleged Misuse of Education Funds at Lahav 433

Shas Member of Knesset Haim Biton was questioned under caution at the Lahav 433 unit on July 12, 2026, amid suspicions of misusing public funds intended for educational purposes. The investigation centers on Biton's tenure as CEO of the Maayan Hachinuch Hatorani education network from 2018 to 2021. Authorities suspect that funds allocated to the network were improperly used to finance the publication and distribution of "Avivim," a children's supplement attached to the Shas party newspaper.

Biton faces allegations including fraud, breach of trust, false corporate documentation, and money laundering. The inquiry has advanced significantly and is approaching the stage of transferring the case materials to the prosecution for a decision on potential charges. A source familiar with the investigation told N12 that the investigation is in critical phases and preparations are underway for prosecutorial review.

Biton previously served as a minister in the Ministry of Education. The probe follows recent developments in the case over the past weeks, highlighting concerns about the misuse of public education funds for political purposes. The Lahav 433 unit continues to gather evidence as the investigation progresses toward legal proceedings.