Israeli Security Cabinet Criticizes Shin Bet Over Intelligence Leak to Channel 12

During a recent Israeli Security Cabinet meeting, senior ministers sharply criticized the failure to promptly investigate a serious intelligence leak to Channel 12 regarding the launch of Operation "Roaring Lion." The leak was deemed a significant threat to Israeli forces, the operation itself, and strategic relations with the United States. Following the criticism, Shin Bet chief David Zini ordered an immediate investigation into the leak, bypassing the objections of the agency's legal advisors and the Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, who had previously blocked the inquiry.

The dispute escalated during the meeting when ministers questioned why the leak had not been investigated despite direct orders from Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Defense Minister. Zini revealed that internal legal officials, under the Attorney General's guidance, had prevented the investigation's initiation. This disclosure caused considerable frustration among cabinet members, prompting Zini to override the legal opposition and commence the probe.

Security officials now report significant progress, with intelligence from multiple sources potentially identifying the unauthorized leaker. Political sources present at the meeting condemned the delay in addressing the leak as scandalous and dangerous, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. The Prime Minister's directive to re-examine the matter was praised as appropriate given the gravity of the breach.