Shin Bet Chief Warns of Resuming Administrative Detentions for Jewish Extremists

The head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, warned during a cabinet meeting that if security forces fail to curb violence by Jewish extremists in Judea and Samaria through other means, he will demand the reinstatement of administrative detentions against Jews. The meeting, which focused on the security situation in Judea and Samaria, was tense, with Zini clashing with Minister Orit Struk over the handling of violence by Jews against Palestinians.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar stated during the discussion that violence by extremists against Palestinians harms Israel's international standing. Zini echoed these concerns, warning that "there are not enough condemnations from the entire leadership, and this harms security and settlement." Minister Struk reacted sharply, accusing the security forces of portraying Arabs as blameless while focusing solely on settlers. She highlighted Palestinian attacks on shepherds, urging the security forces to address and publicize these incidents as well.

Zini countered Struk by stating that Palestinians do not burn down Jewish homes and that she is "disconnected." He reiterated the need for widespread condemnation from leadership, emphasizing the negative impact on settlements and security. The issue of administrative detentions for Jews is significant due to a policy shift two years ago when then-Defense Minister Yisrael Katz halted their use against Jews shortly after taking office. Even Zini himself, since becoming Shin Bet chief, had previously blocked the use of such orders, favoring alternative measures like electronic tagging for Jewish violence in Judea and Samaria.

However, amid escalating violence and mounting political and security pressure, Zini is now signaling a potential change in his stance. He indicated that if alternative measures prove insufficient, he may advocate for the resumption of administrative detentions against Jews.