Shin Bet Declines to Provide Security for Gadi Eisenkot Ahead of Elections

Senior officials in the Israeli political party "Yesh Atid" revealed on Saturday that Gadi Eisenkot, the party chairman and a leading contender against Benjamin Netanyahu in the upcoming elections, will not receive personal security protection from the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency). Eisenkot's chief of staff, Ron Barkai, sent a letter to Shin Bet chief David Zini and the head of the VIP security unit, following a previous request from July 20. Barkai argued that despite Shin Bet's responsibility to protect national-level figures, they have not responded substantively to the request for Eisenkot's personal security detail.

Currently, Eisenkot is protected by private, unarmed security provided by his party, which Barkai claims is insufficient given the intelligence assessments and the increasing threats against him. Barkai highlighted the escalating public tension in Israel, both on the streets and social media, which has heightened the physical danger to Eisenkot. He cited a recent incident where right-wing activist Mordechai David approached Eisenkot at a beach, underscoring the need for appropriate security measures.

In his letter, Barkai referenced the Shin Bet Law of 2002, emphasizing that the agency is responsible for assigning close protection to Eisenkot and urged them to reconsider their decision and provide immediate security. Last month, it was reported that Eisenkot's campaign decided to rely on private security for large events and field visits after Shin Bet declined to assign official protection. Officially, Eisenkot is not entitled to Shin Bet security as he holds no formal government position, and no protocol currently governs his protection despite his prominent role in the election campaign and potential exposure to threats.