Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reshaped Israel's intelligence agencies, including the Shin Bet and Mossad. A year ago, Netanyahu's clashes with the Shin Bet were seen as a hallmark tactic of populist leaders, with potentially grave consequences for Israel's democracy.
Today, relations between Netanyahu and the intelligence agency leaders appear less confrontational, but this shift may reflect a change in the balance of power rather than a resolution of underlying tensions.
The appointment of Maj. Gen. David Zini as head of the Shin Bet has led to a smoother relationship between the agency and Netanyahu, with the Shin Bet providing assessments that align with the prime minister's interests.
