Hamas presents exchange between Palestinian collaborator and Shin Bet agent
Rare recording published by Hamas-affiliated website allegedly reveals nature of 'give-take' relationship between Gaza collaborator and Israeli handler.
A recording of an alleged telephone conversation between a Palestinian agent and his Shin Bet handler was recently released, providing a rare glimpse into the relationship between the two.
A Hamas-affiliated website which published the recorded conversation, claimed that the agent, who is apparently based in the Gaza Strip, was not aware of the fact that Hamas had entrapped him into conducting the exchange between the two.
The Palestinian agent was recorded while talking with the handler through a handsfree cellular device. Those who made the recording and published it reportedly did so in order to prove their effectiveness in uncovering collaborators with Israel and deterring others.
The conversation also illustrates the nature of the 'give-and-take' relationship between the Shin Bet handler and the agent, through known measures such as the exchange of money for information. However, recordings of such calls are considered rare.
During the call, the agent requests that the handler give him $2,000 for a corneal surgery his father has to undergo. The agent specifies the needed amount for that purpose, and gently urges the man on the other side of the line to provide him with the required funds.
The handler does not appear to be enthusiastic about the request and begins to check with the agent if his father has any connections in the Palestinian leadership that would help get a discount for the operation. The agent proceeds to explain that his father is an old man who has no contact with such individuals, which is why he is requesting the funds from the handler in exchange for fulfilling his duty as an agent
The conversation included the following dialogue:
Shin Bet handler: Why doesn't your father pay (for the operation)? Doesn’t he have any connections in the Palestinian Authority?
Palestinian agent: He doesn't have any connections, he's an old man as you know…
Shin Bet handler: Well, ok, $2,000
Palestinian agent: Yes, $2000
The handler at first mocks the request, and sarcastically asks the agent why he is stopping at $2000 and not asking for $20,000, and then claims that such a surgery doesn't cost $2,000. The handler goes on to say, once again with a sarcastic tone, that he will transfer him the funds next year. The video is cut off shortly after and it is unknown what happened next.
The Shin Bet refused to comment on the recording.
