Netanyahu Submits David Zini Nomination as Next Shin Bet Head

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally nominated Maj. Gen. (res.) David Zini as the next head of Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency, seeking to expedite the appointment before the acting director’s term ends on September 21. Zini, a religious Zionist with controversial 'messianic' views and a military background including leadership roles in the IDF Training Command, has drawn criticism and resistance within Shin Bet, with some officials reportedly threatening resignation if he assumes the role. Netanyahu’s choice, which bypasses internal candidates, follows the ousting of former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar amid ongoing investigations involving Netanyahu’s close aides in scandals such as Qatargate and forged Hamas documents. The appointment is under review by the Senior Appointments Advisory Committee, chaired by former Supreme Court president Asher Grunis, with potential for judicial intervention if concerns about conflicts of interest related to the scandals arise. Netanyahu has emphasized Zini’s critical thinking and capacity to adapt the security agency to new challenges, especially following the October 7 Hamas attack, despite legal and political controversies surrounding the process. The nomination has sparked debate over its implications for Israeli democracy and the agency’s independence amid serious security and legal challenges facing the government.