Israeli Government Approves Shin Bet Role in Combating Crime in Arab Sector

The Israeli government has approved a comprehensive plan to involve the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) in fighting crime within the Arab sector, allocating nearly half a billion shekels to the effort. The plan, endorsed in the government's final session before its term ended, was led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Social Equality Minister May Golan, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Under the plan, approximately 364.5 million shekels will be allocated to the Shin Bet to establish a dedicated unit targeting arms smuggling and trafficking, enhancing intelligence and operational capabilities. Additionally, about 132.4 million shekels will be directed to the police to create a national unit focused on crime in the Arab community, including advanced technological and operational equipment.

Starting in 2026, the Shin Bet will receive an increase of 130 personnel positions and an annual fixed budget of 35 million shekels. Prime Minister Netanyahu described the move as a "dramatic breakthrough" in the fight against organized crime, emphasizing the integration of intelligence, operational, and technological tools to dismantle criminal networks and restore public safety. He stated, "We will not accept a reality of violence, extortion, and murder on the streets. The State of Israel will act decisively and with full force to eradicate crime organizations and restore security to the streets." Netanyahu also praised Ministers Golan and Ben-Gvir for leading this significant initiative.