Security Controversy Erupts Over Gadi Eizenkot’s Protection Amid Rejected Shin Bet Request

A security dispute has emerged around Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael party and a leading candidate in polls against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Senior party officials claim their urgent request for close protection by the Shin Bet was denied, leaving Eizenkot guarded only by an unarmed private security firm hired by the party. This arrangement, they argue, is inadequate given the serious threats and incitement against him.

The party sent a formal letter to Shin Bet Chief David Zini on August 18, following a previous July request, warning of "security neglect" for the former IDF Chief of Staff. They cited incidents including a threatening approach by an extremist during a field visit and severe online incitement, such as statements declaring "his days are numbered." The party criticized the government and the ministerial committee overseeing Shin Bet for failing to fulfill their responsibility to ensure Eizenkot’s safety.

According to the party, Eizenkot, as the candidate closest to Netanyahu in the polls, should receive state-level armed protection similar to that of the prime minister. They accuse the security establishment of underestimating the threat level and ignoring intelligence assessments. Despite these warnings, the party reports their request was rejected, and Eizenkot’s security remains limited to the private firm. The party insists the full responsibility for his safety now rests with the defense establishment, which they say refuses to adequately address the growing security challenge.