Israeli Cabinet Approves Lifetime Security for Sara Netanyahu and Extended Protection for Children

The Israeli Cabinet's Security Service Committee has approved a significant extension of security arrangements for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family. According to the decision, Sara Netanyahu, the Prime Minister's wife, will receive close state security protection for the remainder of Netanyahu's life, with an option to extend beyond that period. Additionally, their children, Yair and Avner Netanyahu, will be granted government security for five years following the end of Netanyahu's tenure as Prime Minister.

This unprecedented decision was made based on the direct recommendation of Alon Zini, head of the Personal Security and Government Ministries Division ("Magen"), despite clear opposition from other professional and advisory security officials who questioned the operational necessity of such a long-term arrangement. The ruling reshapes the security framework for Netanyahu's family regardless of whether he continues in office, ensuring costly and comprehensive protection funded by the state even after his retirement or electoral defeat.

The move has sparked public and political controversy, particularly given recent denials from the Prime Minister's Office about any discussions or intentions to extend the family's security detail. Critics, including opposition figures and protest activists, have previously condemned the high costs of the Netanyahu family's security, especially during overseas trips, arguing that the threat assessments by the Shin Bet do not justify such extensive measures.

The decision is expected to intensify scrutiny over government budget priorities and the financing of the Netanyahu family's security. The revelation also highlights tensions between the media and the Prime Minister's Office, which repeatedly denied the existence of talks on this issue until the official committee announcement confirmed the contrary.