Shin Bet's New Star
What Incoming Shin Bet Head Zini Promises in Time of Crisis
New Shin Bet head David Zini assumes leadership role, emphasizing national unity and security commitment during ceremony at President Herzog's residence amid challenging period.
The incoming head of the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), David Zini, was formally hosted by President Isaac Herzog at the President's Residence today, where he delivered his first public remarks on assuming the critical role.
Retired Major General Zini, who arrived with his family, emphasized the importance of national unity and the institution of the Presidency as an apolitical symbol of that unity.
"The reason we returned here after 2,000 years of exile is solely because of our 'togetherness,'" Zini stated, linking the country's existence to its deep roots and shared future.
He pledged his commitment to the nation, asserting:
"We will operate with statesmanship and loyalty to this people, to this state, to its values, and to all its different facets and colors, with complete loyalty and great unity, and out of great comradeship for the security of the state and its citizens."
President Herzog Extols Zini’s Experience
President Herzog opened the ceremony by welcoming the new intelligence chief and recognizing the challenges ahead.
“I am happy to host you here, Major General (Res.) David Zini, the incoming head of the Shin Bet. You begin your tenure on an important national mission, during a complex period with a variety of challenges and tasks,” Herzog said.
Herzog expressed confidence in Zini, noting his extensive background:
“You arrive with vast experience in security and in various fields adjacent to security, and I am familiar with your good nature and your skills, and I am sure you will succeed in your mission.”
The President underscored the nation's reliance on the agency's work, saying,
“The eyes of the entire nation are upon you. We want security, we want peace, we want tranquility in Israeli society, and we want to preserve the functioning and values of the state.”
Acknowledging the Shin Bet’s Mission
Herzog praised the intelligence agency’s personnel for their dedication, calling their work "a sacred task":
"The Shin Bet is a tremendous organization that I have worked with for many years and am constantly impressed anew by its capabilities. This is an opportunity to thank the women and men of the Shin Bet who save lives every day and every hour, and protect the State of Israel and its security, fulfilling the saying, ‘The Rock of Israel and His Redeemer.’”
Zini concluded his remarks with a prayer for the nation as the Jewish holiday of Sukkot approaches. "I pray that this year ends with its curses and a year of blessings begins," he said, offering wishes for peace and safe return:
"May it be a joyful holiday for you and all of Israel, for our wounded, for our captives to return safely, and for all the families of the fallen, comfort and solace. And with the help of God, may we have a full victory and the return of peace to our home in all its sides and colors.”