Israeli Cabinet Committee Approves Lifetime Security for Netanyahu and Wife on Shin Bet Chief's Recommendation

The Israeli Cabinet Committee on Shin Bet affairs has approved lifetime security protection for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara Netanyahu. This decision, announced on July 16, 2026, was made following the recommendation of Shin Bet Chief David Zini and against the advice of professional security officials. Netanyahu's children, Yair and Avner, will receive security protection for five years.

The approval came after significant pressure from Netanyahu's close circle and marks a departure from the usual practice of adjusting security levels based on current threat assessments. Security officials criticized the move, emphasizing that the decision to grant permanent protection regardless of changing threat levels contradicts professional recommendations. One senior security source commented, "This is not a fantasy, this is reality; this is exactly why Zini was placed there."

The lifetime security arrangement means that even if Netanyahu loses future elections, his wife will continue to receive permanent protection, and their children will be secured for a five-year period. This decision highlights the influence of political considerations in security arrangements and the unique role of Shin Bet Chief David Zini in shaping this policy.

The Prime Minister's office had initially denied reports about the extended security, but the committee's approval confirms the arrangement. The move has sparked debate within security circles about balancing professional assessments with political pressures in determining personal security measures for public figures.