Netanyahu, Sara granted lifetime security protection: Hebrew media
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- An 'Israeli' ministerial committee reportedly approved lifetime security protection for Sara Netanyahu.
- The committee also approved extending security protection for the couple's two sons by five years, following a recommendation by Shin Bet chief David Zini.
An 'Israeli' ministerial committee overseeing the Shin Bet security agency has reportedly approved lifetime security protection for Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Hebrew media reports.
The committee also approved extending security protection for the couple's two sons, Yair and Avner Netanyahu, for an additional five years, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming October 27 election.
According to the reports, the committee unanimously backed the measure based on a recommendation from Shin Bet chief David Zini. Earlier reports claimed Zini submitted the request after pressure from Netanyahu and his wife, who argued that the Iran war and other security developments warranted extended protection.
Benjamin Netanyahu is already entitled to security protection for the next 20 years. The reported decision would ensure his wife and sons continue receiving security even if he loses the upcoming election.
Hebrew media reported that officials from the National Security Council and the Shin Bet expressed reservations about approving the request, arguing there was no need to decide now on security arrangements covering the next five years despite acknowledging existing threats.
The Prime Minister's Office initially denied reports about the proposal. The National Security Council and the Shin Bet declined to comment, while the Prime Minister's Office did not immediately respond to reports that the request had been approved.
Opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot criticized reports that Sara Netanyahu had contacted Shin Bet chief David Zini regarding the request, describing any attempt to influence the head of the security agency through family members or associates as "completely insane."
Eisenkot also criticized recent remarks by Zini suggesting his loyalty was to elected officials, arguing that the head of a security agency should be loyal to the state and act in accordance with the law.
