David Zini

Weapons smuggling via drones poses a threatening new reality for Israel - analysis

The drone smuggling threat is growing, as the last attempts occured on the Egyptian and now apparently also the Jordanian border.

 View of a new security drone in Efrat, in the West Bank
Palestinians stand near the rubble in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, January 17, 2026

As Israel pushes back, Gaza becomes testing ground for emerging post-war governance - analysis

Shin Bet director David Zini attends a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, October 5, 2025

Shin Bet Chief Zini names 'N' as new deputy head, to enter role next month

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff speaks at the weekly rally at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, October 11, 2025.

Trump’s Gaza peace plan officially entering Phase II, Witkoff announces


PM's conflict of interest 'unprecedented' in Shin Bet chief case, petitioners argue

The Supreme Court heard petitions on Tuesday against Netanyahu's appointment of former IDF general David Zini as new head of Israel's spy agency.

Protesters removed by security guards during a court hearing on petitions concerning the manner of appointing the head of the Shin Bet, at the Supreme Court in Jerusalem, July 1, 2025

Netanyahu: Delaying Zini appointment as Shin Bet chief is ‘disconnected’ from national needs

Then-Shin Bet head Ronen Bar’s resignation came into effect on June 15, enabling Netanyahu to appoint Bar’s deputy, known as “S”, as interim Shin-Bet head for one month.

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

Who is 'S', new acting Shin Bet chief replacing Ronen Bar? - explainer

"S" was on a first-round short list for potential appointment by Netanyahu, but did not make a second-round short list.

(L-R) Shin Bet director Ronen Bar and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Three steps ahead: How Edelstein outmaneuvered everyone and is positioned to save Israel - opinion

Perhaps, right now, we are witnessing the redemption of the man who was shot in the first act but storms back in the final act with a submachine gun, to save what’s left of Israel.

 Committee Chairman Yuli Edelstein leads a Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee meeting at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem on March 10, 2025.

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.