David Zini

Former Shin Bet chiefs, officials call out Netanyahu, Zini for 'conspiracies against Ronen Bar'

"We express astonishment at the silence of the head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, in light of the unprecedented slander against former head of the service, Ronen Bar," the published letter said.

 ILLUSTRATION: Benjamin Netanyahu and Ronen Bar
Bezalel Zini, brother of Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) chief David Zini, suspected of smuggling cigarettes into Gaza, February 3, 2026.

Zini affair highlights the security and political costs of Gaza smuggling - opinion

Bezalel Zini, accused of smuggling cigarettes into the Gaza Strip, is seen on a screen at the Beersheba District Court, February 5, 2026

Shin Bet chief's brother indicted for aiding Hamas during wartime in Gaza smuggling case

Two suspects arrested after smuggling 80,000 cigarettes disguised as tissues.

'Systematic, sophisticated operation': How millions of goods were smuggled into Gaza - explainer


Lapid, Gantz call on Zini to refuse Shin Bet head appointment

Both Lapid and Gantz quoted reports that Netanyahu decided to appoint Zini after speaking to him for a short period during a visit to the IDF’s Ze’elim base approximately two weeks ago.

 MKS YAIR Lapid and Benny Gantz stand next to each other during a debate in the Knesset plenum last week.

What are the legal challenges facing Netanyahu's pick for Shin Bet head? - explainer

It is unclear whether these will be resolved by the time outgoing Shin Bet head Ronen Bar’s term ends on June 15.

 Maj.-Gen. (Res.) David Zini and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

IDF says Gaza op. about controlling territory and aid, NSC issues warning for Canada

Omer Wenkert reveals more about captivity • IDF kills Hamas naval commando terrorist • NSC issues travel warning to Canada,

 IDF troops operate in northern Gaza, May 25, 2025.

Einav Zangauker calls Netanyahu's pick for Shin Bet chief 'un-Jewish, inhumane'

Zini has reportedly said behind closed doors, “I am against hostage deals; this is an eternal war,” concerning hostage families.

 Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, accuses Netanyahu of sabotaging a hostage deal, May 17, 2025.

Maj.-Gen. Zini's appt as Shin Bet head undermines IDF Chief of Staff Zamir's status - analysis

If Zini’s appointment proceeds, it is likely that it will damage professional ties between him and Zamir.

 Maj.-Gen. (Res.) David Zini and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

'I am against hostage deals,' Netanyahu's Shin Bet chief pick says - report

The remarks, reportedly made during closed meetings at the General Staff, have sparked concern among hostage families and added to existing criticism regarding his suitability for the post.

Families of Israelis held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza and supporters attend a protest calling for their release, outside the Prime Minister's residence in Jerusalem on April 7, 2025.

Lapid, Israeli officials call on Netanyahu's Shin Bet candidate to delay, renounce appointment

The announcement was made despite a High Court ruling that the dismissal of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar was unlawful.

 Maj. Gen. David Zini visits families of fallen Israeli soldiers during Memorial Day which commemorates the fallen Israeli soldiers and victims of terror at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem on April 30, 2025.

Netanyahu justifies Shin Bet head appt, says Zini will not be involved in 'Qatargate' probe

The statement said that a permanent successor to Bar must be appointed by the time Bar's term ends on June 15.


IDF clarifies new Shin Bet appointee was not dismissed from military

An earlier IDF statement stressed that any communication by IDF personnel with the political echelon requires the approval of the chief of staff.

 IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visits soldiers stationed at the security buffer zone in Syria, April 20, 2025.

Netanyahu's office publishes excerpts of pre-Oct. 7 Maj.-Gen. Zini report on IDF preparedness

“[...] In almost every sector, a surprise raid on our forces could succeed, undermining the rule ‘we will be surprised but not defeated.’"

 Maj.-Gen. David Zini attends a ceremony held at the IDF Central Command headquarters in Jerusalem, July 8, 2024