This morning (Sunday), Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar phoned Maj. Gen. David Zini. The two discussed the transition process for the leadership of the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet). Their conversation followed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement last week appointing Zini as the next Shin Bet Director. The appointment is proceeding even though the court ruled last week that Bar’s dismissal was marred by a conflict of interest, due to the Prime Minister’s possible involvement in the “Qatar-gate” affair.
Justice Yitzhak Amit stated that Netanyahu had a personal interest in the outcome of the legal proceedings, given his close ties with three individuals implicated in the case: Yonatan Urich, Yisrael Einhorn, and Eli Feldstein. The judge also warned against ignoring the recommendations of authorized legal experts, saying this increases the risk of a serious conflict of interest.
“The Incoming ISA Director Has No Influence Over ‘Qatar-gate’”
In response, the Prime Minister’s Office said: “The investigations regarding Qatar are being conducted by the ISA and Israel Police, under the supervision and oversight of the Attorney General. The incoming ISA director has no influence over this.”
The statement emphasized that the Prime Minister is responsible for national security—particularly in a multi-front war—and therefore, “appointing an interim ISA director is not a sufficient measure.” It stressed the need “to appoint a permanent ISA director without delay,” adding that “any delay harms national security and endangers the lives of our soldiers.”
Zini’s Appointment Procedure
The Prime Minister’s Office detailed the process: Zini’s name will first be submitted to the Grunis Committee for an integrity review, and subsequently to the government for approval, in accordance with the law that states: “The head of the Israel Security Agency shall be appointed by the government on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.”
The Incoming Director
Born in Jerusalem and educated in religious schools, Zini enlisted in Sayeret Matkal in 1992 and has since served at the core of Israel’s combat forces. He commanded the 51st Battalion, the Egoz Unit, founded the “Oz” Commando Brigade, and later led the Idan Formation, the IDF’s Ground Forces Command School (MALI), and the General Staff Corps and Training Command. He is known for demanding high professional and ethical standards from himself and his soldiers.
Highlights of his military career include leading the 51st Battalion when it received a unit citation for extended operations in Gaza, and commanding the Golani Brigade in the fierce Battle of Shuja’iyya during Operation Protective Edge. In October 2023, immediately after the Hamas attack, he rushed from his home in Keshet in the Golan Heights to the battle in Mefalsim, where he personally eliminated terrorists.
The Man Who Saw the Danger Ahead
In May 2023, Zini prepared a strategic report for the Gaza Division commander warning of the potential for a surprise infiltration through the border fence—an assessment that in hindsight eerily anticipated the October 7 scenario. With a broad, systemic perspective, Zini proposed a concrete response to the threat and emphasized the need to shatter prevailing security assumptions about Gaza.
Integrating the Haredi Sector and Building Trust
Following the massacre, Zini helped establish a dedicated brigade for Haredi soldiers, allowing military service while preserving their way of life. He initiated meetings with leading rabbis, including Rabbi Dovid Leibel. Despite facing attacks from extremists, he continued to promote a unifying approach to voluntary enlistment.
A New Spirit in the Security Service
Zini is married to Naomi, the father of eleven children, and holds a master’s degree in national security. He lives in the Golan Heights. His appointment reflects a move toward integrating combat, cognitive, and ethical excellence in pursuit of one of Israel’s key goals: internal security and the fight against terrorism.
