Ex-Security, Judicial Officials Criticize Shin Bet Chief's Probe Demands

Former Israeli security and judicial officials have sharply criticized Shin Bet chief Duvdevani for demanding investigations into Arab party leaders, citing suspicions of foreign interference in elections without providing evidence. Two separate petitions were published on Wednesday, with the signatories expressing support for Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, who requested evidence from Duvdevani before approving the probes. They also warned him against politicizing the Shin Bet.

The former security officials, including ex-chiefs of staff, police commissioners, generals, and heads of Mossad and Shin Bet, stated that the Shin Bet is obligated to operate officially and avoid actions aimed at advancing partisan political interests. They argued that Duvdevani's demand violates this duty and questions his suitability for his position. The officials expressed alarm at the Attorney General's stance, emphasizing the Shin Bet's extensive powers must be used strictly within legal and principled boundaries. They warned that investigating citizens, particularly elected officials, without evidence breaches fundamental rules and that the current demand may stem from political motives to undermine election results, thereby interfering with electoral integrity and public trust.

Similarly, former judicial officials, including public prosecutors and security agency personnel, voiced deep shock over reports of Duvdevani's demand for investigations without evidence. They stressed that probes require a basis in evidence, quoting the Attorney General's message that "anyone who should be investigated will be investigated, but people are not investigated without a basis of evidence." They added that the Shin Bet's broad authorities are bound by law and its function, including safeguarding democratic systems. The demand, they asserted, contradicts the agency's role, exceeds its powers, and could make it a danger to democracy instead of a protector.

They underscored that without essential checks and balances, any citizen could face arbitrary actions and harm. The former officials declared their support for Baharav-Miara and for Shin Bet officials who adopted a professional stance against the "dangerous demand." Duvdevani had reportedly asked Baharav-Miara on Tuesday to investigate Knesset members Ahmad Tibi and Mansour Abbas, National Union party head Sami Abu Shehadeh, and another unnamed Knesset member.