Shin Bet Considers Armed Security for Gadi Eizenkot Amid Rising Threats During Election Campaign

The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) is currently deliberating the possibility of providing armed security for Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party, due to escalating threats against senior Israeli officials amid the ongoing election campaign. This consideration arises from concerns that Eizenkot, a leading candidate for prime minister, is presently protected only by unarmed bodyguards, which security officials view as insufficient given the heightened risk environment.

Discussions within the security establishment are examining the legal feasibility of assigning armed protection to Eizenkot. Under current law, Shin Bet security is limited to individuals defined as "symbols of government," a category that does not yet include Eizenkot. Consequently, alternative arrangements are being explored, potentially involving the Israel Defense Forces or the Knesset Guard to provide the necessary armed security.

The initiative follows warnings from Eizenkot's chief of staff, who expressed concern to Shin Bet and the police commissioner about the candidate's lack of armed protection. Security officials acknowledge that the current situation, where a prime ministerial candidate faces Iranian threats while guarded only by unarmed personnel, is untenable. Although no final decision has been made, the professional consensus is leaning toward enhancing Eizenkot's security measures to ensure his safety during the politically charged period.

This development was first reported two weeks ago in the main news broadcast, highlighting the growing security challenges faced by Israeli political figures. The Shin Bet and other defense bodies continue to evaluate the best approach to address these threats within the legal framework and operational capabilities available.