Shin Bet Approves Armed Private Security for Gadi Eizenkot, Not Direct Protection

Shin Bet chief David Zini has authorized armed private security for Gadi Eizenkot, leader of the Yashar party and a leading candidate for Israel's next prime minister, following a controversy over his security arrangements. Despite demands from Eizenkot's party for official state protection similar to that of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Shin Bet decided not to provide direct security personnel. Instead, the private security team assigned to Eizenkot will be armed and receive intelligence support and direct communication with the Shin Bet operations center to monitor threats and ensure his safety.

The decision came after party officials expressed concern over what they described as the "security neglect" of the former IDF Chief of Staff. They highlighted incidents such as a threatening approach by an extremist during a field visit and online threats suggesting imminent danger. These concerns were formally raised in urgent letters to the Shin Bet in July and August, demanding enhanced protection due to Eizenkot's high standing in polls as a potential prime minister.

Criticism was also directed at the government and the ministerial committee overseeing the Shin Bet for delaying a decision on providing state security. The compromise reached allows Eizenkot to maintain armed private security with Shin Bet intelligence backing, but stops short of full official protection. This arrangement aims to balance security needs with organizational protocols amid political sensitivities.