Netanyahu Family Secures Lifetime Security Package Worth 12 Million Shekels Annually

The head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, has conceded to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wife, Sara Netanyahu, granting her and their two sons lifelong security protection despite professional security agencies' opposition. According to the Shin Bet's security assessment submitted to the advisory committee on security matters, the annual cost of this protection package will remain at 12 million shekels. The advisory committee, chaired by retired Colonel Ronen Cohen, who was appointed by Netanyahu himself, forwarded this recommendation to the Ministerial Committee on Shin Bet Affairs, which is set to approve the request following a government meeting.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has already been granted Shin Bet security for 20 years, until he turns 96. The current decision extends close protection by the Shin Bet's personal security unit to Sara Netanyahu and their sons, Yair and Avner, indefinitely and irrespective of future election outcomes. The package includes close security, a vehicle, and a driver. Yair Netanyahu's frequent international travel may increase costs due to the need for additional security personnel.

The Ministerial Committee on Shin Bet Affairs, a political body composed of Netanyahu's allies, can approve lifelong security for the family, but a future government could revoke this decision. The Shin Bet's professional security staff opposed extending protection for five more years, let alone for life. During the previous change government, the committee reduced security for Sara Netanyahu and the sons.

The advisory committee's meeting was delayed multiple times due to the Shin Bet's late submission of its opinion. The renewed discussion this week included the possibility of lifelong protection for Sara Netanyahu. Netanyahu's office justifies the expanded security citing the ongoing war and increased threats to state symbols. Sources indicate the main rationale is the changed threat landscape, but questions remain about the appropriate duration and justification for lifelong protection, especially for a former prime minister's family.

Although the official stance is to apply security measures equally to all former prime ministers, in practice the arrangement is tailored to Netanyahu's demands. His circle describes the move as an insurance policy in case he loses the upcoming elections, ensuring continued Shin Bet protection for Sara and their children. An insider noted that "Bibi and Sara want to be on the safe side if they lose, securing Shin Bet protection for Sara and the kids, fearing defeat and wanting to guarantee ongoing security." It is also noted that any new ministerial committee could overturn the current decision.