Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar Visits U.S. for Sensitive Security Talks

Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar made a secret visit to the United States, his first since assuming the role. During his trip to Washington D.C., Bar met with his FBI counterparts to discuss a range of sensitive security issues. This visit comes as a public advisory committee on personal security convened to debate the protection of Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the "Yisrael” party, and Yair Golan, chairman of the “Democrats” party.

Contrary to expectations, the committee recommended providing security for Eisenkot until the upcoming elections. However, a decision regarding Golan's security detail has not yet been made. Director Bar has previously stated his position that neither party leader requires state security, arguing they do not represent governing institutions.

Earlier reports indicated that Bar had informed Eisenkot that he would not receive Shin Bet security, instead offering him a direct hotline to a situation room for emergencies. A representative from the Personal Security Unit (Unit 730) also contacted Eisenkot's office to offer consultation. The Shin Bet responded to these reports, stating that the claims are inaccurate. They confirmed Bar spoke with Eisenkot, as he has with other candidates during the election season, and emphasized that the Security Division maintains ongoing contact with Eisenkot's private security firm to monitor and thwart potential threats. The Shin Bet also confirmed that, at Bar's recommendation, a member of the Personal Security Unit spoke with Eisenkot's office.