Private Firm to Guard Yashar Leader Under State Command

A private security firm will begin guarding Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot on Sunday morning. The detail will operate under the direct instruction of Unit 730, the elite internal security unit within the Shin Bet.

The party announced the arrangement on Friday. This new protocol resolves a months-long dispute over the level of state protection afforded to political figures. In August, Shin Bet chief David Zini initially ruled that Eisenkot did not meet the criteria for Unit 730 coverage. That assessment shifted in September after the Advisory Committee for Personal Security reviewed updated intelligence on threats facing the Yashar leader. The committee then recommended state oversight.

Despite Zini's approval in September, Eisenkot had no assigned security detail at that time. The Shin Bet outlined a broader framework for party leaders. This includes intelligence support from state units, permission for hired security teams to carry weapons, and regular coordination between the Shin Bet and private guards. The agency will also conduct periodic assessments to gauge threat levels.

The Ministerial Committee for Shin Bet Affairs granted Zini the authority to set these arrangements for party leaders who hold no public office. This authorization remains in effect until the next Knesset is sworn in. Not all party leaders have received similar protection. Yair Golan, chairman of The Democrats, petitioned for Shin Bet coverage citing a comparable threat level. The Shin Bet has denied him immediate protection at this stage.