Gadi Eizenkot Turns to Shin Bet for Security, Forced to Use Private Guards Amid Iranian Threats

Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party and former IDF Chief of Staff, has written to Shin Bet head David Zini expressing concerns over his personal security. The letter, sent amid heightened Iranian threats against Israeli officials and the tense atmosphere surrounding the upcoming elections, states that Eizenkot is compelled to rely on private security guards without firearms. This is due to legal limitations preventing police from allowing private guards to carry weapons and the fact that Israeli law does not mandate Shin Bet protection for Eizenkot, as he is not considered a government symbol.

Eizenkot's campaign chief highlighted the volatile election environment and the increased risks it poses, noting that despite Shin Bet's awareness of threats against senior figures including Eizenkot, no official security arrangements have been provided. The letter also mentions recent disturbing incidents and publications that prompted the decision to hire private security, though the team lacks intelligence capabilities to share with the guards.

The issue remains under review by Shin Bet and the Israeli police, but no resolution has been reached. The legal gap leaving Eizenkot without mandated protection has raised concerns, especially following controversial remarks by Deputy Commissioner Ronen Cohen, who implied Eizenkot bore responsibility for the October 7 attacks. This situation underscores the challenges in securing former senior officials who are politically active but not officially protected under current law.