David Zini, the head of Shin Bet, publicly asserted that there was no betrayal or collaboration from the security services during the tragic events of October 7. Speaking at a conference that included Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Zini accepted the findings of an internal investigation conducted by Shin Bet regarding the massacre, emphasizing the need to rectify professional failures and integrate lessons learned going forward. This statement comes amidst scrutiny and demands for public clarity regarding accusations of betrayal within the security apparatus.

Just a month prior, a senior security official criticized Zini for not previously affirming that no betrayal had taken place. The comments reflect rising tensions within the Israeli government and security establishment, where officials appointed by Netanyahu are expected to publicly denounce unfounded claims of treachery, but remain silent instead. This silence raises questions about internal loyalty and the broader implications for public trust in the security services post-crisis.

In the past two weeks, five former heads of Shin Bet, along with numerous department heads from the organization, have publicly criticized Zini’s handling of unprecedented attacks on former director Ronen Bar and other officials involved in the October 7 events. They have urged Zini to stand firmly against the false narratives alleging betrayal, reflecting an ongoing struggle within the Israeli security community to maintain authority and trust in the face of mounting pressure from the government and public discourse about accountability and failure.