In a full article published tonight, Shin Bet Director David Zini says his fitness for the role came from his capacity to be loyal to the elected government. The quote expands on his earlier remarks in a video obtained by N12 and first reported by i24's Amiel Yarchi.
Shin Bet Director David Zini's full interview, published tonight (Tue 23:33 Jerusalem), provides the exact phrasing of his rationale for accepting the role: that his loyalty to the elected government made him feel uniquely fit. The quote expands on the earlier video aired by N12 and reported by i24's Amiel Yarchi, as The Zioneer covered. No additional details on the interview itself were disclosed.
Earlier tonight at 22:25 Jerusalem, the story unfolded in rapid succession. First, i24NEWS published leaked recordings of Zini explaining his decision, prompting a sharp response from political figure Golan. Minutes later, N12 aired a video statement from Zini, followed by the Shin Bet's official release of the same footage. The Zioneer reported Zini's quote: 'I felt very fit, perhaps more than others, to be loyal to the elected government.' The source quality evolved from an unverified leak to an official Shin Bet publication, and now a written article provides further context.
As The Zioneer reported earlier tonight, the recordings and video have drawn political reactions, with Golan saying anyone who pledges loyalty to politicians will not remain in the job for a day. The remarks by Zini, who was appointed by Prime Minister Netanyahu, have been a focal point of public debate.
It remains unclear whether the full interview with Zini will be released, or if additional remarks from the same conversation will surface. The article tonight does not disclose the interviewer or the venue of the original discussion.
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