Eisenkot Hints at Review of Shin Bet Chief's Tenure Post-Election

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party and former IDF Chief of Staff, indicated on Sunday that he would re-evaluate the performance of Shin Bet chief David Zini if the "change bloc" successfully forms a government after the upcoming elections. Speaking at a youth conference, Eisenkot criticized recent appointments within the Shin Bet, expressing concern over the promotion of associates rather than professionals to sensitive security roles. "I have a very heavy concern that they are appointing people who are convenient, people they know, not professionals," he stated, adding that these appointments "will be examined on their merits in three weeks" after the elections.

Eisenkot's remarks come amid reports that Zini decided to appoint a brigadier general from the IDF, who lacks prior experience in counter-terrorism or intelligence, to a senior Shin Bet position responsible for counter-terrorism among Arab citizens of Israel. The Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, is also reviewing the necessity of these senior appointments, given directives for restraint in appointments during an election period.

Eisenkot acknowledged knowing Zini for decades and having previously promoted him, calling him an "excellent field officer." However, he stressed that appointees must be loyal to the state, not their appointer. He refrained from a direct commitment to replace Zini but reiterated his intention to review the matter post-election, expressing confidence that the "change bloc" would win and bring a better reality, appointing individuals based on merit, not personal loyalty.

Eisenkot linked the Shin Bet appointment criticism to a broader issue he claims is harming public service, citing appointments in the Prime Minister's Office of individuals who are unprofessional, lack security clearances, or are family and Likud central committee appointees. He argued this phenomenon has significantly degraded public and security services.

The Shin Bet rejected the criticism, stating that the appointments were pre-scheduled, conducted legally and professionally, and based on candidates' qualifications and experience. Eisenkot further intensified his criticism of the Prime Minister's Office, referencing recent serious allegations by former military secretary Avi Gill regarding changes to security discussion protocols. Eisenkot described these alleged actions as akin to "organized crime," involving protocol alterations and covert political maneuvering.

He also touched upon the "Qatar-gate" affair, noting that an individual close to the Prime Minister allegedly receives money from Qatar while sitting near him. Eisenkot characterized these as unimaginable phenomena being normalized, demanding a change through leadership that speaks truth and makes difficult decisions for Israeli citizens.

Eisenkot also revealed details of a sensitive security discussion on October 11, 2023, four days after the Hamas attack, concerning a potential preemptive strike against Hezbollah. He highlighted that the initial part of this crucial discussion was not recorded, meaning its details would be unknown to any future state inquiry commission.

Looking ahead to the political landscape after the October 27 elections, Eisenkot reiterated his commitment to forming a government even if the "change bloc" does not secure 61 mandates, provided there is a clear Zionist majority. He stated he would support such a government but would not partner with parties not aligned with his principles. He aims for Yisrael Beiteinu to be the largest party, surpassing Likud, to establish a strong, sustainable government capable of making critical decisions on national education, inquiry commissions, and the conscription law.