Shin Bet Director David Zini Confirms Sole Responsibility for Decision to Deny Gadi Eisenkot State Security Detail
Shin Bet Director David Zini clarified that he alone made the decision to deny Yashar head and prime ministerial candidate Gadi Eisenkot a state security detail. The decision followed a request from the Yashar party, which argued that physical threats against Eisenkot are escalating daily. Zini stated that the agency currently lacks intelligence indicating any intention to target Eisenkot. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed Zini to ensure Eisenkot receives protection at an appropriate level according to need. Despite the denial of a permanent state detail, the Shin Bet will provide a liaison and gather intelligence for serious incidents. The Yashar campaign has submitted written objections, alleging that the decision may be politically motivated. The campaign suggested that the government might be avoiding the image of Eisenkot appearing 'prime ministerial' by being surrounded by security personnel. To clear the air, the and the Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet Affairs must demonstrate that the decision was based on professional considerations rather than political alliances.