Senior Journalist Defends Netanyahu Ally David Zini for Shin Bet Chief Amid Media Criticism

Senior Israeli journalist Omri Assenheim offered a candid critique of how the Israeli media treats top security officials, linking their coverage to political biases against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Speaking on Galei Yisrael radio, Assenheim argued that figures like Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi have received excessive media directives due to their opposition to Netanyahu.

Assenheim also voiced strong support for appointing Major General David Zini, currently head of the IDF Training and Doctrine Command, as the next Shin Bet chief. He cited historical precedents where commanders were appointed to lead intelligence agencies without prior internal experience, such as Danny Yatom’s appointment to Mossad and Ami Ayalon’s transition from the Navy to Shin Bet. Assenheim said, "There is no reason why David Zini, a highly decorated IDF general, should not be appointed if Netanyahu believes he is the right person."

Addressing the public and media backlash against Zini’s potential appointment, Assenheim attributed much of the criticism to an automatic opposition to Netanyahu. He claimed that past controversial appointments driven by loyalty rather than merit have fueled unjustified attacks on Zini. However, Assenheim also criticized Zini’s recent public handling of sensitive internal issues, including a Pride event at Shin Bet and a memorial corner, saying these missteps "give unnecessary ammunition to his opponents, including those inside the organization."

Assenheim’s remarks provide a rare media defense of Netanyahu’s security appointments while acknowledging challenges Zini faces within the agency and the broader political-media landscape.