Shin Bet Chief Plans to Extend Netanyahu Family Security Protection Possibly For Life

Shin Bet Chief David Zini has recently decided to adopt a recommendation to extend security protection for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family beyond his term in office. According to a report by Channel 12 News on Wednesday evening, Zini is expected to sign an opinion granting prolonged security coverage, potentially for life, to Netanyahu, his wife Sara, and their children Yair and Avner. This unusual decision follows intense behind-the-scenes pressure from Netanyahu's close circle.

The Shin Bet professional staff had advised that security levels should be contingent on the current threat assessment, but Zini appears set to override this stance. It remains unclear whether Sara Netanyahu will receive lifetime protection or a five-year security period, though her request is likely to be approved. The security opinion will be submitted to a ministerial committee, which is expected to approve it without difficulty.

Senior security officials criticized Zini's move, emphasizing that it disregards professional recommendations to adjust protection based on threat levels. They remarked to Channel 12 that Zini was appointed precisely for such critical moments. The Shin Bet has not yet issued an official response to the report.