Shin Bet Chief Takes Full Responsibility for Denying Security to Former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot

On August 23, 2026, Shin Bet chief David Zini announced that former IDF Chief of Staff and leading prime ministerial candidate Gadi Eizenkot would not receive personal security protection from the Shin Bet, despite facing numerous threats. Zini stated he bears full responsibility for this decision, which he made after consulting with professional bodies, including Judge Noam Solberg, chair of the Elections Committee. The Shin Bet justified the decision by noting Eizenkot is not considered a symbol of government and thus does not qualify for their security detail.

Former Shin Bet chief and Eizenkot party colleague Yoram Cohen criticized the decision as puzzling, emphasizing that Eizenkot receives threats both internally and externally. Eizenkot’s team warned that the volatile election environment and Iranian threats against Israeli officials have increased the danger. They revealed that while the Shin Bet offered an intelligence liaison and support for specific events, they refused to provide comprehensive security coverage.

In response, Eizenkot’s staff wrote to various officials, including the government legal advisor, accusing political motives behind the refusal to provide protection. Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the decision as irresponsible, highlighting the contrast with the full security provided to Yair Netanyahu abroad and warning that any harm to Eizenkot would be the Shin Bet’s responsibility.

During July, Eizenkot’s team formally requested security from the Shin Bet due to Iranian threats, but after the denial, they have been forced to rely on private security without firearms, as police regulations prevent armed private guards. This situation has raised concerns about the safety of a prominent political figure amid a tense and highly charged election campaign.