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Tensions are growing within Israel’s political landscape as the Netanyahu family requests lifetime Shin Bet security services, despite assessments suggesting the perceived risk to their safety is not high. According to Israeli news outlet N12, Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, met with Shin Bet head David Zini to plead for continuous close protection for herself and her children.
Sources from the Close Security Unit 730 claim that the family’s perceived risk does not warrant ongoing long-term security measures. Nonetheless, the family’s request appears to have been refused by Zini, who has yet to sign off on the proposal. Neither the Shin Bet nor the Prime Minister’s Office has seen fit to comment on the matter, fueling speculation and concern over the family’s alleged need for enhanced security.
The timing of this development comes as the Knesset Finance Committee convened on Monday to discuss the allocation of NIS 393 million to the Prime Minister’s Office, largely for security purposes. However, the committee found itself at odds over an additional NIS 12 million in funding proposed for the Netanyahu family’s security. MK Vladimir Beliak raised eyebrows in questioning the additional expenditure, pointing out that only three months had elapsed since the state budget was approved. ‘I am not saying they do not deserve security. I am only asking why another NIS 12 million is needed now,’ Beliak said, sparking further debate on the allocation.
This development has ignited a firestorm, particularly in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Israel’s general election. With the country mired in a contentious and seemingly indecisive election cycle, heightened security considerations are bound to capture the nation’s attention. However, the question remains whether the perceived risk to the Netanyahu family necessitates the allocation of such extensive funds for security purposes.
In the backdrop of the committee’s deliberations, questions continue to swirl as to the rationale behind the Prime Minister’s Office and Sara Netanyahu’s request. It appears evident that tensions between the family and security agencies are escalating, further clouding the prospects for election resolution.