Netanyahu seeks extended security protection for his family beyond potential end of premiership

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking to extend the security protection provided to his family beyond his time in office, according to a report published by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth.

The newspaper reported that Netanyahu’s associates have been urging Israeli security and intelligence bodies to support a proposal that would allow the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) to continue providing security protection to his family for an additional five years if he leaves office following the 27^th October elections.

According to the report, Sara Netanyahu has also requested that her husband receive lifetime security protection, rather than the 20-year period currently provided under existing arrangements. The newspaper said the proposal has prompted disagreements within the relevant government institutions.

Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the ministerial committee overseeing Shin Bet affairs has repeatedly declined to approve the request, while security officials have postponed a final decision. The matter is expected to be reviewed again by the committee.

The report noted that the children of former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid do not currently receive security protection, raising questions about whether the Netanyahu family should receive exceptional arrangements.

According to the newspaper, Netanyahu’s supporters argue that changes in Israel’s security environment, including recent regional conflicts, warrant a reassessment of existing protection measures.

One source quoted by the newspaper said that Netanyahu and his wife are seeking to ensure continued security arrangements for their family in the event that he loses the upcoming election.

Another source cited by the newspaper said the debate is not over whether security protection is necessary, but rather over its duration and whether a five-year extension should be granted automatically if Netanyahu leaves office.

The report has not been independently confirmed, and no official decision on the request has been announced.