Shin Bet Chief Initiates Leak Probe on Netanyahu's Orders Amid Iran Strike Disclosure

Shin Bet Chief David Zini has launched an investigation into the leak of the timing of the Iranian strike known as "The Lion's Roar." Sources close to Zini claim that the probe was compelled by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Shin Bet estimates, around 4,000 security personnel were aware of the strike date, making it extremely difficult to identify the leaker even if the matter proceeds to investigation.

Senior security officials maintain that no security damage resulted from the leak, as the operation successfully eliminated Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking the strike's opening as a success. The investigation followed revelations that Yaakov Bardugo, a Channel 14 commentator and presenter close to Netanyahu, pressured Zini to investigate Channel 12 news for leaking the strike date. Initially, Zini had stated there was "no lead," but he later authorized the inquiry.

The Shin Bet responded by denying that professional decisions by Zini were influenced by external parties, emphasizing that the decision to investigate the leak was made well before the reported meeting with Bardugo. They also noted that Zini regularly meets with journalists from various media outlets.

Last week, Zini stated at an Argaman Institute conference that he accepted his role because he felt uniquely qualified to be loyal to the elected leadership regardless of political views. He criticized the elected officials' ability to manage their responsibilities, saying ministers can issue directives that take months to implement due to confusion about roles.