Shin Bet Denies Dismissing Gender Equality Officer Amid Controversy Over Wife's Letter

The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) officially denied reports that its chief, David Zini, dismissed the agency's Gender Equality Officer following her public criticism of a letter written by Zini's wife, Naomi. The letter, sent to female employees during Passover, praised the strength of women who uphold goodness and blessing, linking it to the Jewish people's revival after 2,000 years of exile. The Gender Equality Officer criticized both the content and the decision to address the letter exclusively to female staff, arguing it reinforced outdated gender roles and raised concerns about its impact on the agency's LGBTQ+ community, which she said receives ideological and resource support from the Shin Bet.

Despite media reports claiming the officer was removed due to her opposition to the letter, the Shin Bet clarified that she was not dismissed and that Zini personally spoke with her to refute the claims. Sources cited in the reports suggested she was expected to conclude her role in the coming months and would remain in the agency in a different capacity. The officer also advocated that any such messages should be addressed inclusively to all employees' families rather than singling out women.

The incident highlights internal tensions within the Shin Bet regarding gender equality and communication approaches, with official statements emphasizing ongoing commitment to equality while rejecting the dismissal narrative. The agency continues to support gender equality and LGBTQ+ inclusion as core values.