Shin Bet chief Zini visits Beersheba, reviews Negev threats after warning of Bedouin ‘battalions’

Shin Bet Director David Zini visited Beersheba on Sunday to discuss security threats in the Negev region and meet with Mayor Ruvik Danilovich. Zini provided an overview of the agency's activities and plans to counter these threats, emphasizing the work of both the IDF and Shin Bet in thwarting them. He also reminded the security cabinet of his warning last month about the establishment of military-style infrastructure and armed groups with battalion-like characteristics among Bedouin communities in the Negev. Zini noted that such developments are highly concerning.

A few days after Zini's warning, the Shin Bet uncovered a terrorist cell in the Bedouin town of Segev Shalom, near Beersheba. The group, reportedly modeled after Palestinian "battalions" in the West Bank, allegedly planned attacks on local police and the Beersheba Central Bus Station. This incident highlights the rising trend of weapon smuggling and theft of IDF weapons in Israel, as well as shooting incidents in Negev cities and Bedouin communities, causing residents to question their safety.

During their meeting, Danilovich briefed Zini on Beersheba's rapid growth and the city's national responsibilities, such as accommodating IDF units moving south, generating employment, retaining young residents, and integrating new immigrants. He also highlighted the city's security investments, cooperation with the police, and the importance of addressing regional threats.

Zini praised the agency's efforts in thwarting terrorism and expressed gratitude to Mayor Danilovich for the visit. He emphasized that the Negev represents both opportunities and challenges for the State of Israel, as Ben-Gurion once stated: "It is in the Negev that the people of Israel will be tested."