Netanyahu taps Shmuel Ben Ezra, Arrow 3 innovator, as national security adviser

Crucial role has only been filled in a temporary capacity since October, when Tzachi Hanegbi was ousted over reported disagreements with the PM

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday announced the appointment of Shmuel Ben Ezra as Israel’s next national security adviser and head of the National Security Council, a key body that shapes Israeli security policies.

Ben Ezra “brings with him over 30 years of experience in the defense of the country’s security,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement. “He stood as the head of the development of the Arrow 3 missile interceptor project and won the Israel Defense Prize.”

Ben Ezra also spent four years as head of the Shin Beit security agency’s operational technology and cyber division. The statement noted that he has many years of experience working with US government bodies and other international entities.

Ben Ezra will take over from Gil Reich, who has served as acting national security adviser since Tzachi Hanegbi was ousted from the role in October amid reported disagreements with the premier over policies during the war in Gaza.

The Israeli government website describes the NSC as “the headquarters for issues related to foreign affairs and national security of the prime minister and government.”

The council “coordinates, designs, and plans the national security policy” as well as recommending “alternative policies for the prime minister and government.”

The position of national security adviser is considered a “position of trust,” meaning that if Netanyahu is ousted in the coming elections, Ben Ezra would also be required to leave his position. According to Haaretz, a number of other possible candidates for the position refused to be considered for the job because of the looming elections.

Israel is set to hold elections no later than October 2026.