IDF Major Charged with Aiding Enemy, Taking Bribe in Alleged Gaza Smuggling Scheme

An Israeli military officer, a career major and deputy battalion commander, faces serious charges including aiding the enemy and accepting bribes in a sophisticated smuggling operation targeting the Gaza Strip. The indictment, a result of a joint investigation by the Shin Bet, Israel Police, Military Police, and customs, details how the officer allegedly used his authority as sector commander near the Kerem Shalom crossing to facilitate the illicit transfer of goods worth millions of shekels.

The alleged plot, initiated by a Palestinian resident of Hebron in December 2025, involved a network of Israeli civilians who agreed to assist in exchange for substantial financial rewards. The officer, reportedly facing pressure to repay significant debts to a criminal figure, is accused of accepting a bribe related to this debt while also facilitating the smuggling operation.

This case highlights the complex challenges faced by security forces operating in sensitive border regions. The indictment details how the officer allegedly manipulated operational procedures, including deceiving a fellow officer on duty, to allow a truck carrying unauthorized items—such as mobile phones, cigarettes, and electronics—to pass through military checkpoints without proper inspection. The gravity of the charges underscores the military's commitment to upholding integrity and combating corruption within its ranks, especially in a conflict zone where security is paramount.