Shin Bet Chief Zini Begins Probe into Security Leak Under Netanyahu's Pressure
Following the launch of Operation Roaring Lion, Israeli security officials gathered evidence of a leak regarding the timing of the attack to the media. This leak, reported by Channel 12, sparked criticism from American counterparts who expressed concerns about Israel's information security practices during diplomatic discussions. In response, Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the Ministry of Defense's Security Supervisor to investigate the matter. The investigation recommended opening a formal inquiry.
Journalist Josh Breiner revealed that Yaakov Bardugo, a close confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a Channel 14 commentator, disclosed in a broadcast that he met with Shin Bet Chief David Zini and his deputy to advance the investigation into the leak. Zini subsequently sought immediate approval from the State Attorney Gali Baharav-Miara to start the probe.
Despite Netanyahu ordering the Shin Bet to investigate, the agency initially hesitated, citing difficulties due to the large number of individuals with access to the classified information, which lowered the chances of identifying the source. After a recent cabinet discussion, Netanyahu reiterated his directive to proceed with the investigation and report findings to him. The Shin Bet's legal counsel clarified that the Prime Minister's order mandates opening the investigation and that approval from the State Attorney is unnecessary since the probe targets security personnel, not journalists.
The Shin Bet emphasized that leak investigations are conducted following professional and legal protocols and under the agency's statutory responsibility to prevent security breaches. The agency also stressed that decisions are made independently and not influenced by external parties. It was noted that the decision to investigate preceded Bardugo's meeting with Zini, who regularly meets with journalists from various media outlets.
This development highlights ongoing concerns within Israel's security establishment about safeguarding sensitive information amid heightened regional tensions and the political pressure exerted by Netanyahu to resolve the leak issue swiftly.
