Sara Netanyahu requests lifetime security from Shin Bet: Hebrew media
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Sara Netanyahu, wife of ‘Israeli’ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has requested lifetime or extended security measures for herself and her two sons, Yair and Avner, according to reports from Hebrew Channel 12 on Tuesday.
The request was made during a meeting with David Zini, head of the Shin Bet (‘Israel’ Security Agency), and seeks to secure protection regardless of the outcome of the upcoming elections.
Multiple Hebrew media outlets, including Channel 12 and Ynet, reported that Sara Netanyahu is pushing for a formal five-year extension of Shin Bet security details for the family, to take effect immediately.
This comes amid concerns that a potential election loss could result in the removal of their personal protection, similar to what occurred after the 2021 elections when security for Sara and the sons was discontinued after six months.
Prime Minister Netanyahu himself is entitled to protection for 20 years after leaving office under ‘Israeli’ law.
The family’s request aims to establish similar long-term arrangements for his wife and children under rules for a “former prime minister’s family.”
Officials from the family argue that heightened threats, including those stemming from the ongoing war with Iran and other security developments, justify the extension.
Sources close to the matter indicate that the perceived risk to the Netanyahu family does not currently warrant ongoing long-term close security measures.
The Close Security Unit 730 reportedly conveyed this assessment to Shin Bet head David Zini, who has so far refused to approve the extended arrangement.
A ministerial committee chaired by Netanyahu, which includes key ministers such as Justice Minister Yariv Levin and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, was scheduled to discuss the proposal but postponed the meeting pending professional opinions from security agencies.
The National Security Council and Shin Bet have refrained from committing to a specific multi-year timeframe, though they acknowledge potential threats.
Netanyahu’s office has denied the reports.
