Gadi Eizenkot Lacks Official Shin Bet Security Despite Leading Political Role

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party and a leading contender against Benjamin Netanyahu for prime minister, is not officially protected by the Shin Bet security agency. Although Eizenkot may receive the mandate to form a government, he does not hold an official state position that would entitle him to Shin Bet protection. Consequently, his campaign team has decided to provide him with private security during large events and field visits due to increased public exposure and threats.

This situation contrasts with the security arrangements for other political figures: Yair Netanyahu, the prime minister's son, receives Shin Bet protection, as does former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who is protected due to his previous official role. Shin Bet chief David Zini has supported lifetime protection for Sara Netanyahu, the prime minister's wife, and extended security for their children for five years after Netanyahu's term ends.

The Shin Bet stated that it is responsible only for protecting individuals designated by law, and Eizenkot is not among them. The decision to provide Eizenkot with private security follows a sharp rise in attendance at his party events and the intensified campaign against him. This development highlights a gap in security protocols for prominent political figures who do not hold formal government positions but face significant risks during election campaigns.