Report: Shin Bet head Zini, IDF chief Zamir clash over security responsibilities

A heated confrontation allegedly erupted between Shin Bet chief David Zini and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir during a recent high-level discussion at the Prime Minister’s Office, Channel 12 reports.

According to the report, tensions flared when Zamir accused Zini of overstepping his authority and commenting on matters outside the Shin Bet’s domain, particularly concerning security responsibilities and coordination between the IDF and the internal security agency.

In one exchange cited by Channel 12, Zamir challenged Zini’s role in a particular security matter, saying: “Sorry, I just want to understand — what exactly is the Shin Bet’s role here? What are their powers? Are they the ones who will issue warnings? No, the IDF will issue warnings, not you.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was present at the meeting, reportedly intervened to mediate and proposed establishing a joint working mechanism between the two security bodies.

While security sources tell Channel 12 that the two leaders maintain generally good working relations, the report noted lingering “mutual suspicion” and concerns within the IDF that Zini has been acting independently in areas outside his purview.

Both the Shin Bet and the IDF decline to comment on the report, saying they do not respond to details from closed security discussions.

The alleged confrontation follows Zini’s dismissal from the IDF in May by Zamir, after Zini reportedly held talks with Netanyahu without informing the chief of staff, leaving Zamir blindsided by the premier’s announcement of Zini as the next head of the Shin Bet.