Michael Shemesh Reveals Shin Bet Spokesperson Leaked Full Recordings of Chief Zini

The controversy surrounding the leaked recordings of Shin Bet Chief David Zini continues to stir political and media debate in Israel. The recordings, which include Zini discussing his appointment, his relationship with the political echelon, and his views on the judicial system, have drawn varied reactions.

Political commentator Michael Shemesh offered a distinct perspective during a Wednesday interview on 103FM with Gideon Oku and Amichai Etali. Shemesh stated that Zini did not appear to have stumbled in the recordings, suggesting that Zini spoke deliberately and as if aware the comments might be made public. Shemesh emphasized the importance of identifying who leaked the full video, asserting that it was the Shin Bet spokesperson’s office responsible for the dissemination. According to Shemesh, there was no statement by Zini that could be considered a significant misstep.

The recordings revealed Zini’s assertion that he accepted the Shin Bet chief role because he felt "more qualified than others" and valued his ability to be "loyal to the elected leadership." He also sharply criticized the judicial system, describing human rights as "nonsense in disguise" and lawyers as "tools."

These remarks sparked a wave of responses from public figures. Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen stressed that the loyalty of a security agency head must be "first and foremost to the State of Israel, its laws, and its citizens." Meanwhile, other political figures expressed support for Zini’s comments and his approach to balancing relations between the political leadership and the professional security establishment.