The Shin Bet has increased security around former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, reportedly doubling his protection and raising it to the level provided to the defense minister following recent threats and incidents.

Bennett, chairman of the B’Yachad party, was informed of the upgraded arrangements in recent days.

The decision comes against the backdrop of an incident during a visit to Bnei Brak, where a saltshaker was thrown toward Bennett during a gathering at a local political discussion group.

The object struck a female staff member, who required medical treatment. The incident followed other confrontations at similar gatherings around the country.

Bennett has recently been campaigning in Likud strongholds, seeking to persuade supporters of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to switch their backing to him.

The heightened protection also comes amid reports over the past year that attempts by foreign cells to target Bennett were thwarted. Those reported plots were linked to his actions against Iran during his tenure as prime minister.

Security arrangements have also drawn attention in the cases of Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot and Democrats chairman Yair Golan, whose parties have covered the costs of their protection.

Bennett’s security arrangements are also connected to his previous official positions, with the latest increase prompted by the threats against him.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)