Netanyahu Appoints New Head of Internal Security Despite Judicial Ban

On Thursday evening (May 22, 2025), Benjamin Netanyahu announced the appointment of Major General David Zini as the new head of Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security service, ignoring a judicial ban imposed by the country’s Supreme Court just the day before. The chosen appointee, Major General Zini, currently serves as the head of the IDF’s education corps and is responsible for promoting the enlistment of ultra-Orthodox Haredi individuals into the military. In an official statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, it was noted that in March 2023, David Zini compiled a report on the then-commander of the Gaza Division to assess readiness for complex events, particularly surprise attacks, and to identify weaknesses. Netanyahu emphasized Zini’s findings that almost any area could face a sudden attack on their forces. Outgoing Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar announced he will resign on June 15. Yesterday, Israel’s Supreme Court ruled Netanyahu’s decision to remove Bar illegal and prohibited him from appointing a new chief while the implications of his decision are under review. According to the court, the government’s decision to dismiss Bar was ‘erroneous,’ and the Prime Minister has a conflict of interest due to ongoing investigations by Shin Bet against his close associates. Last year, Netanyahu reportedly refused to appoint Zini as his military secretary, describing him as ‘too messianic’ to trusted officers. Zini is a member of the national-religious community, and according to Haaretz, Sara Netanyahu pressured for Zini’s appointment as the next IDF Chief of Staff.