Shin Bet chief David Zini is expected to approve extended security protection for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, after Netanyahu leaves office, rejecting the recommendation of professional officials within the agency, Channel 12 reported.

According to the report, significant pressure was applied behind the scenes by associates of the prime minister and his wife to advance the arrangement. Shin Bet professionals had recommended that the extent and duration of the protection be determined solely according to the assessed threat level, but Zini is reportedly preparing to adopt a different position.

The final arrangement has not yet been decided. One option would provide Bibi and Sara Netanyahu with lifetime security protection, while their children would receive protection for five years. Under another proposal, Sara Netanyahu would receive security protection for five years.

Sara Netanyahu reportedly sought guarantees that the security arrangement would remain in place even following a change of government. Zini’s recommendation is expected to be submitted to a ministerial committee, where it is expected to receive approval.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)