not everywhere· Security· Updated 21:51

Shin Bet to Oversee Gadi Eisenkot's Security via Private Firm

The Shin Bet will assume responsibility for the security of Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yashar party, starting Sunday morning. The protection will be provided by a private security firm funded, supervised, and directly operated by the Shin Bet's Unit 730, rather than by the agency's own guards.

9 newsrooms · 3 languages · since 17:11

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Shin Bet to Oversee Gadi Eisenkot's Security via Private Firm — Illustration by baba

What happened

01The Shin Bet will take responsibility for Gadi Eisenkot's security starting Sunday morning using a private security firm.
02The private security company will operate under the direct command and supervision of the Shin Bet's Unit 730.
03Shin Bet chief David Zini had previously refused to provide direct agency guards for Eisenkot, despite advisory committee recommendations.
04The Ministerial Committee on Shin Bet Affairs, chaired by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, authorized the Shin Bet to determine security for party leaders.
05Eisenkot's security detail will be upgraded to the level of a defense minister during the election week.
06The Democrats leader Yair Golan also sought security, but his appeal to the High Court of Justice was unsuccessful.

This decision marks a shift in the Shin Bet's stance. In August, Shin Bet chief David Zini ruled that Eisenkot did not qualify for direct protection by the elite unit, and the agency initially refused to provide direct security. The Ministerial Committee on Shin Bet Affairs, chaired by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, had determined that the agency would decide on security for party leaders without existing protection. While an advisory committee recommended guarding Eisenkot, Zini opted for the private security arrangement.

The change comes during election week, amid what Eisenkot's party described as escalating threats. The security detail will be upgraded to the level of a defense minister, with enhanced accompaniment during travel and events. Under Israeli law, the Shin Bet must protect individuals expected to form the next government or serve as opposition leader, meaning the security arrangements could be re-evaluated after the election.

Summarized by baba from the reports of 7 newsrooms. Updated 22:31