Shin Bet Set to Tackle Crime in Arab Society After Budget Approval

The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) is expected to begin addressing crime within the Arab community following a recent budget approval. The agency requested a budget of one billion shekels to effectively combat crime in this sector. This move marks a significant shift from the Shin Bet's previous stance, which opposed involvement in Arab criminal matters due to concerns about a "slippery slope" and the risk of exposing sensitive technological capabilities.

A budget meeting held this week included the Government Secretary, officials from the Ministry of National Security, and Shin Bet representatives. They reached a preliminary agreement to allocate the requested funds to the agency. The final approval now awaits the Prime Minister's endorsement.

About three years ago, amid rising violence in the Arab community, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed determination to involve the Shin Bet as a supporting force to the Israel Police. Despite this, the agency had previously voiced reservations about the plan, fearing it could undermine counterterrorism efforts and reveal classified technologies. The Shin Bet has not publicly commented on the closed-door discussions.

If approved, this initiative will represent a new chapter in the Israeli security apparatus's approach to crime in Arab society, potentially enhancing law enforcement capabilities in this area while balancing national security concerns.