Shin Bet Allows Armed Private Security for Gadi Eizenkot Amid Threats

The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) has decided to permit armed private security personnel to protect Gadi Eizenkot, leader of the Yisrael party, during his election campaign. However, the agency will not provide direct protection through its official security unit, Unit 730. This arrangement follows Eizenkot's request for security assistance due to numerous threats against his life.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally spoke with Shin Bet chief David Zini, urging that Eizenkot receive appropriate protection. As a result, Eizenkot's security team will be authorized to carry firearms, and his campaign will receive intelligence support and a direct communication line to the Shin Bet operations center for optimal monitoring.

Despite these measures, Shin Bet head David Zini emphasized that the ultimate responsibility for Eizenkot's security lies solely with Eizenkot himself. This decision has sparked criticism from former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen, who expressed confusion over the refusal to provide official protection given the serious threats Eizenkot faces.

The arrangement aims to balance Eizenkot's security needs with Shin Bet's operational policies, allowing for enhanced intelligence support without direct agency guarding. Eizenkot's team had previously indicated they would resort to private security firms if official protection was denied. The new setup was finalized about a month after Eizenkot initially approached the Shin Bet for security assistance.