Despite past opposition, the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) is expected to begin handling crime in Arab society, according to a report. The shift would mark a significant expansion of the agency's role beyond counterterrorism and intelligence.
On Friday evening, a report indicated that the Shin Bet is expected to begin handling crime in Arab society, marking a significant expansion of its role beyond counterterrorism and intelligence. The development follows earlier reports tonight that a budget of approximately 1 billion shekels for the Shin Bet to join the fight against organized crime in Arab communities had received in-principle approval, pending Prime Minister Netanyahu's final sign-off.
At 20:22 Jerusalem, The Zioneer reported on three developments: the Shin Bet budget was approved in principle, but the previous Shin Bet chief had opposed the move over concerns of mission creep; Prime Minister Netanyahu's approval is still awaited; and the agency's director had given a conditional green light to join the effort. These reports indicated that the decision is at an advanced stage but not yet finalized.
As The Zioneer reported on June 29, Police Commissioner Danny Levi declared an uncompromising fight against organized crime in Arab society, describing it as a top-tier national mission. The government's push to involve the Shin Bet reflects the ongoing struggle to curb violence in Arab communities.
The final decision still awaits Prime Minister Netanyahu's approval. The previous Shin Bet chief's opposition underscores internal debate over the agency's role. The specific scope of the Shin Bet's involvement and the timeline for implementation remain unclear.
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