Daijiworld Media Network - Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv, Oct 1: The Israeli government has officially approved the appointment of David Zini, a former senior military officer, as the new head of the Shin Bet domestic security agency for a five-year term, set to begin on October 5. Zini's selection, announced by the Prime Minister’s Office, marks a significant shift in the leadership of one of Israel’s most critical intelligence bodies. A veteran of numerous senior operational roles within the Israeli military, Zini is being brought in as an external candidate, replacing Ronen Bar, whose tenure ended amid sharp political tensions and public criticism following the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack.

Zini's appointment has already ignited widespread backlash from both opposition leaders and segments of the Israeli public. Critics point to his far-right political leanings, including his reported opposition to ceasefire and hostage negotiation deals in Gaza and his support for a prolonged military approach. The controversy is further deepened by ongoing investigations into close associates of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who are suspected of maintaining undisclosed business ties with Qatar during Israel’s ongoing multi-front conflict. Opponents argue that Netanyahu’s hand-picked Shin Bet chief may obstruct internal probes or provide political cover for the embattled prime minister, who is currently standing trial on multiple charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

Zini steps into a role left vacant by Ronen Bar, who was dismissed in March due to what Netanyahu described as a “loss of trust,” despite the Attorney General’s Office advising against the move. Although Israel’s High Court temporarily froze Bar's dismissal, Bar ultimately resigned in mid-June, and the agency has since been led by a deputy chief whose identity remains undisclosed for security reasons.

In defending his choice, Netanyahu stated that the post-October 7 security landscape demanded new leadership from outside the Shin Bet’s traditional ranks. He praised Zini for his unorthodox thinking, adaptability, and operational experience, saying these qualities made him uniquely qualified to lead the agency during this turbulent period. Despite the government’s confidence, the appointment continues to fuel a fierce national debate over political influence in Israel’s security institutions and the future direction of its domestic intelligence strategy.