Shin Bet Chief Zini Initially Opposes Leak Probe Despite PM's Demand

New details have emerged regarding the Shin Bet's investigation into a leak about the Israeli strike in Iran, first reported by Channel 12. Shin Bet chief David Zini reportedly told officials that the leak did not justify opening an investigation due to the limited number of people involved, the severity of the leak, and the low chance of solving it. However, the demand to investigate came directly from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office during Operation Roaring Lion in March.

Zini deliberately delayed initiating the probe, understanding the case did not meet the usual criteria for leak investigations, which the Shin Bet conducts about seven to eight times annually. For months, Channel 14 commentator and presenter Yaakov Bardugo pressed Zini to open the investigation. Ultimately, Netanyahu exercised his authority to order the inquiry, and about a week later, the Shin Bet's legal advisor told Zini there was no choice but to comply.

This explains the Shin Bet's contradictory public stance, where Zini initially told the security cabinet there was insufficient cause to investigate. Bardugo claimed on his radio show on June 22 that he met with Zini and his assistant for a lengthy discussion about probing the leak. Reports from i24NEWS revealed that another Shin Bet official present at the meeting is a close relative of a well-known Channel 14 journalist.

The Shin Bet stated that the decision to investigate was made well before the meeting and emphasized that Zini regularly meets with journalists from various media outlets. Zini also asserted his loyalty to the elected leadership, saying, "I am more capable than others of being faithful to the elected echelon."