Israel Mobilizes Shin Bet to Tackle Organized Crime in Arab Communities
The Israeli government has taken a significant step in addressing organized crime within Arab communities by approving a plan that involves the Shin Bet, Israel's internal security agency. This initiative, spearheaded by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Social Equality Minister May Golan, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, will redirect approximately 497 million shekels from the existing Five-Year Plan to bolster efforts against criminal organizations in these communities.
Of the total funding, around 364.5 million shekels will be allocated to the Shin Bet to create a specialized unit aimed at combating smuggling and weapons trafficking. This unit will enhance the agency's intelligence and operational capabilities. Additionally, the Israel Police will receive approximately 132.4 million shekels to establish a dedicated national unit focused on crime in Arab society. This funding will also support the development of technological systems and the procurement of advanced operational equipment.
Starting in 2026, the Shin Bet will add 130 new personnel positions as part of this initiative, along with a permanent annual budget allocation of 35 million shekels. Prime Minister Netanyahu described the involvement of the Shin Bet in this effort as a dramatic and significant step in the ongoing battle against criminal organizations, which he referred to as a national plague.
Netanyahu stated, "Combining the intelligence, operational, and technological capabilities of the Shin Bet, alongside the activities of the Israel Police and all law enforcement agencies, will allow us to utilize the best tools available to the State, including advanced means and intelligence capabilities, to reach the heads of criminal organizations, strike at their infrastructure, and restore personal security to our citizens."
He further asserted that the government will not tolerate a reality of violence, extortion, and murder in the streets, pledging that the State of Israel will act decisively and without compromise to eradicate criminal organizations and restore security. Netanyahu commended Ministers Golan and Ben Gvir for their leadership in this crucial initiative.
