Security Panel Recommends Protection for Gadi Eisenkot Amid Election Tensions

The Advisory Committee for Personal Security recommended on Sunday that Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, be provided with security protection due to the charged atmosphere of the upcoming election campaign. Ronen Cohen, the committee's chairman, stated in an interview that the election is highly volatile, with significant incitement on social media.

Cohen explained that the combination of these factors, along with Eisenkot's candidacy and position, necessitated a considerable effort to ensure his safety. He noted that the committee is discussing the protection of civilians and setting a precedent. Cohen also emphasized that relying solely on concrete intelligence for security decisions can be flawed, as many assassination attempts globally occur without prior specific warnings.

"Our goal is for this entire process until the elections to pass peacefully," Cohen said. Addressing past criticisms he leveled against Eisenkot, Cohen clarified that he never suggested Eisenkot shouldn't receive security. Instead, his criticism was directed at Eisenkot's approach to the Shin Bet, which Cohen likened to treating it as a private security firm, deeming it an unusual situation to provide security for a civilian.