Three Brothers Charged with Fraud for Falsely Claiming Victim Status in October 7 Hamas Attack

Three brothers from Tira have been indicted for fraudulently obtaining funds from Israel's National Insurance Institute by falsely claiming they were in the city of Sderot during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, while they were actually at home in Tira. According to the indictment, the two eldest brothers received approximately 150,000 shekels based on their false statements, while the third brother attempted to claim victim status and benefits but was caught before receiving payments.

One brother claimed to have witnessed Hamas militants shooting from pickup trucks and described severe trauma including anxiety, nightmares, and fear of loud noises, leading to his recognition as a victim of hostile acts and receipt of about 78,000 shekels in compensation and grants. The second brother also claimed to have been in Sderot during the attack, suffering from anxiety and fear, and received over 56,000 shekels in total. The third brother stated he was on Nitzan Street in Sderot during the attack and sought victim recognition and benefits, but an investigation by the National Insurance fraud unit revealed the claims were false.

A source familiar with the case told Mako that all three brothers were actually in Tira during the attack and are now required to repay the funds they fraudulently received. Following the investigation, the National Insurance Institute filed a complaint with the Israeli Police fraud unit. The brothers were questioned under caution and released. On Wednesday, the Central District Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment against them at the Kfar Saba Magistrate's Court, charging them with fraud and attempted fraud. Their trial is expected to begin soon.