Likud's Amichai Shikli Defends Shin Bet Chief Zini, Criticizes IDF Chief and Liberman

Amichai Shikli, the Minister for the Diaspora and a member of the Likud party, spoke on 103fm on February 16, 2026, addressing several hot-button issues in Israel. He strongly defended Shin Bet chief David Zini, praising his counterterrorism efforts, particularly the ongoing hunt for terrorists involved in the October 7 attacks. Shikli dismissed concerns raised by Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Liberman, who warned on Channel 12 about potential Shin Bet interference in the upcoming elections. Shikli called Liberman "one of the biggest charlatans in Israeli politics" and condemned his conspiracy allegations as irresponsible and damaging.

Shikli also supported Shin Bet’s investigation of Channel 12 journalists over leaks related to the "Roar of the Lion" operation, describing it as Israel’s most sensitive security operation in fifty years. He emphasized that questioning journalists who receive unauthorized sensitive military information is justified.

Regarding recent legislation benefiting the ultra-Orthodox community, including the Basic Law on Torah Study, Shikli argued that sensational headlines misrepresent the laws’ practical impact. He noted that controversial clauses equating yeshiva students with soldiers were removed, and the law simply recognizes the value of Torah study. He rejected claims about "draft evasion laws," calling them propaganda and clarified that exemptions apply only to those with regulated status.

Shikli also criticized IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir for publicly addressing the issue of draft evaders through media statements, calling it inappropriate and expecting military leaders to avoid political involvement. While respecting Zamir, Shikli disagreed with his claim that not detaining draft evaders would harm the army’s readiness.