The Israeli Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet Affairs has approved lifelong security protection for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an exceptional move recommended by Shin Bet Chief David Zeini.
According to Israel Army Radio, the decision also covers Netanyahu's wife, Sara, ensuring her protection throughout her husband's lifetime, with the possibility of extension if necessary.
Channel 12 reported that Shin Bet's head signed off on the recommendation despite internal professional objections to granting permanent security. Nonetheless, Zeini insisted on the decision, which was then approved by the ministerial committee.
The decision also includes Netanyahu's sons, Yair and Avner, although their security is limited to five years, unlike the permanent protection afforded to their parents.
Israeli media reports suggest that Netanyahu’s close associates exerted pressure in recent days to solidify the decision amidst security assessments of high levels of threats targeting the Prime Minister and his family, linked to assassinations and military operations involving Iran and allied groups.
This decision comes as Israel prepares for parliamentary elections in October that could end Netanyahu's tenure if he loses, following his years of political dominance in Israel.
In related news, the ministerial committee announced it would reassess the security threat levels for several former prime ministers, including Ehud Barak, Ehud Olmert, Naftali Bennett, and Yair Lapid, to evaluate their security protection needs.