Shin Bet Chief Considers Resuming Administrative Detentions for Jewish Extremists

The head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, informed cabinet ministers that he may seek the reinstatement of administrative detentions against Jewish individuals in the West Bank if other measures fail to curb extremist violence. This tool, which allows for detention without trial, was previously halted by Defense Minister Israel Katz shortly after he took office. Zini's remarks came during a discussion focused on violent incidents perpetrated by a minority of extremists against Palestinians in the West Bank. Previously, Zini had opposed the use of administrative detention, despite calls from some on the ground, but indicated that the option might be revisited if current methods prove insufficient.

During the same meeting, a confrontation occurred between Zini and Orit Strock, the Minister of Settlement Affairs and National Missions. Strock argued that the security establishment does not adequately address attacks by Palestinians against Jews in the region, stating, "Palestinians attack shepherds, injure them, endanger their lives." She accused the security forces of portraying settlers as the sole problem. Zini responded by pointing out that Palestinians are not burning Jewish homes and that the leadership needs to condemn such actions, which he believes harm both settlers and security. Strock countered that settler leadership has indeed condemned violence, citing calls from regional council heads and rabbis, and stated she herself is active on the issue. When Zini asked where she had condemned these events, she replied, "Everywhere. Just listen."