Government backs nomination of Zini as Shin Bet chief, urges expedited confirmation

The government issues a statement welcoming Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s intention to appoint IDF Maj. Gen. David Zini as the next head of the Shin Bet security service.

“The government calls on all relevant parties to remove obstacles and expedite the approval process for the appointment, which is essential for Israel’s security,” the statement reads, emphasizing the need for a permanent Shin Bet chief during wartime and rejecting the option of a temporary appointment.

The move comes amid sharp criticism from Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, who warned that Netanyahu acted against legal counsel and may have made the decision while in a conflict of interest, rendering the process “flawed.”

Further controversy arose when it was revealed that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir was informed of Zini’s appointment just minutes before the official announcement and had not been aware Zini was even under consideration.