Shin Bet removes internal memorial for 7 October victims, sparking controversy
The head of Israel’s domestic security agency Shin Bet, David Zini, has ordered the removal of an internal memorial at its headquarters dedicated to personnel killed in the 7 October attack and its aftermath.
The memorial, created by staff, included photographs of agency members and relatives of personnel who died during the events of the 7 October attacks. According to officials, the agency argued that the display showed only part of the broader tragedy, while a permanent wall already exists listing all fallen personnel.
Israeli media outlet Haaretz reported that sources close to Zini, a senior Israeli security official, said the memorial was removed to avoid keeping a “constant reminder of defeat.” Critics described the decision as controversial and politically sensitive.
According to Israeli figures, 12 Shin Bet personnel were killed during the attacks and subsequent fighting. The move has intensified debate in Israel over how the security establishment remembers one of its most significant intelligence failures.
Senior officials including Eyal Zamir have been mentioned in broader discussions about military coordination during the crisis.
