In a video obtained by N12, Shin Bet Director David Zini says he accepted the role from Prime Minister Netanyahu because he felt exceptionally qualified and could be loyal to the elected government. The footage was first reported by i24's Amiel Yarchi, as The Zioneer reported earlier tonight.
The latest development in the Shin Bet controversy Tuesday evening: a new video shows Director David Zini stating, 'I felt very fit, perhaps more than others, to be loyal to the elected government.' The footage, obtained by N12 and reported by journalist Amit Segal, was followed by the Shin Bet’s release of its own official video of the same remarks. This comes after a sequence of disclosures earlier in the evening, all first reported at 22:25 Jerusalem time.
At 22:25 Jerusalem, i24NEWS’s Amiel Yarchi published leaked recordings of Zini’s comments on loyalty. Shortly after, also at 22:25, N12 aired a video statement from Zini himself. The Shin Bet then released the official footage, also at 22:25. The Zioneer reported each stage as it unfolded. The leaked recordings prompted a sharp response from political figure Golan, who said anyone who pledges loyalty to politicians would not remain in the job for a day.
The Zioneer has covered the deepening crisis around Zini for weeks. Earlier tonight, The Zioneer reported on leaked recordings in which Zini reportedly called human rights 'nonsense in disguise' (Tue 21:39 Jerusalem). Over the past days, The Zioneer reported that civil society groups called for a probe (Fri Jun 26), Channel 14 demanded an investigation (Tue Jun 30), and senior officials threatened to resign (Wed Jul 1). The Zioneer also reported on Zini’s move to remove the agency’s investigations head (Mon Jul 6) and allegations of a media campaign targeting him (Thu Jul 2).
It remains unclear how these successive statements will affect Zini’s position. The Shin Bet has not commented on the controversy beyond releasing the official video. Political and internal pressure on the agency continues.
5 developments
- ConfirmedBen Gvir backs Shin Bet chief Zini in full article: 'Subordination to elected branch is basic in a democracy'
- DevelopingLeaked recordings: Shin Bet chief Zini called human rights 'nonsense in disguise'
- StrongZini expands on criticism of elected officials, says law mandates subordination to government
- DevelopingChannel 12 Accused of Targeting Shin Bet Chief Zini in 'Consciousness Engineering' Campaign
Source and signal
- Internal intake