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Israel’s High Court Upholds Zini as Shin Bet Chief in 2–1 Ruling

The split decision underscores judicial deference to vetted security appointments.

Overview

  • The majority rejected petitions to overturn David Zini’s selection, citing established restraint when an advisory committee has reviewed a senior security appointment.
  • Chief Justice Isaac Amit dissented and urged an independent advisory reexamination, referencing testimony by former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar alleging political pressure by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
  • Justice Sohlberg criticized the petitions as relying on media reports and lacking a substantive evidentiary foundation to challenge Zini’s integrity or suitability.
  • Justice David Mintz dismissed arguments targeting Zini’s religious or Zionist views as unsubstantiated gossip and not grounds for disqualification.
  • The court ordered the petitioners to pay 70,000 shekels in legal costs after rejecting the challenges.