Shin Bet head says agency subordinate to Elections Committee on electoral matters, after backlash over ‘loyalty’ remarks

President Isaac Herzog, Central Elections Committee chairman Noam Sohlberg and Shin Bet chief David Zini hold a meeting to emphasize their commitment to “ensuring the integrity of the elections,” with Zini clarifying that he is subordinate to Sohlberg on all election-related matters, after he said this week that he had taken his position out of “loyalty to the elected leadership” sparked backlash.

During the meeting, which came at Zini’s initiative, the three officials “emphasized their shared commitment to safeguarding the purity of the elections, strengthening public trust and upholding the status of the Central Elections Committee,” according to a readout from Herzog’s office.

The meeting comes after comments from Zini drew criticism from current and former officials. Speaking Tuesday, Zini said he had accepted the position because of his ability to be “loyal to the elected leadership,” while also declaring that he brings his own agenda to the role. Zini also clarified during the speech that his loyalty would be to any elected leadership. Under the law, the Shin Bet is subordinate to the government.

“With regard to elections, the Shin Bet is directly subordinate to the chair of the Elections Committee, in order to do everything in our power to preserve the state-like, nonpartisan character and integrity of the elections,” Zini says in the readout.

Herzog adds: “Elections are not a civil war. Elections are a social, democratic and political process.”

“There are many hostile foreign digital influences, and there are many elements seeking to sabotage from within, and especially from without,” the president continues, without elaborating, adding: “We will do everything in our power, and I am confident that the Central Elections Committee and its personnel, with the backing and support of the Shin Bet, will prevent such disruptions.”