Israel's incoming Shin Bet chief opposes hostage deals

Major General David Zini, newly appointed to lead Israel’s Shin Bet security agency, is facing criticism after revelations emerged that he has consistently opposed negotiating hostage deals. 

Zini, appointed on May 22 by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is a senior IDF officer who previously headed the General Staff Corps and oversaw training and exercises. However, his lack of experience in intelligence and regional strategy was already a source of concern. Now, his reported rejection of hostage negotiations has ignited a fresh wave of controversy, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media. 

Zini expressed his views repeatedly in closed-door discussions at the IDF General Staff over the past year, according to media reports. 

"I am against hostage deals. This is an eternal war," Zini reportedly stated during these high-level meetings.

While such views may have seemed less consequential in his former role focused on operational training, critics argue they take on grave significance now that Zini is set to head the Shin Bet — an agency deeply involved in counterterrorism, intelligence gathering, and hostage negotiations.

Families of Israeli hostages and advocacy groups have expressed alarm over the appointment, fearing that Zini’s uncompromising approach could reduce the likelihood of future rescue or negotiation efforts.

By Sabina Mammadli