In a statement released today, five former heads of Shin Bet, along with 31 former department heads, expressed their discontent with the actions of current Shin Bet chief David Zini. They condemned what they described as unprecedented attacks from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against Ronen Bar, who previously led the agency, along with other staff and operatives associated with Shin Bet. The criticism is particularly pointed towards a document released by Netanyahu to the State Comptroller, which the former officials argue misuses classified materials and is presented in an unfair manner, lacking the necessary opportunity for those mentioned to respond.

The former heads emphasize that such behavior undermines the integrity of the agency and places its personnel at risk, pointing out that these unwarranted attacks have emerged from Netanyahu's circle and coalition members. They assert that Zini's leadership in this turbulent time must involve a strong defense of his agency's personnel and an initiative to provide them with a platform to address the allegations made against them.

This incident not only highlights the ongoing tensions between Netanyahu and security agencies in Israel but may also have wider implications for the internal politics of the government. The fallout from the document and the public criticism could escalate tensions further, challenging Zini’s leadership and potentially influencing the broader relationship between the government and the security services in Israel, amid a backdrop of national security concerns.