Netanyahu appoints Shmuel Ben Ezra as new head of National Security Council

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday appointed Shmuel Ben Ezra as head of Israel's National Security Council, replacing Tsachi Hanegbi, who was removed from the post in October 2025. In a statement, Netanyahu's office said Ben Ezra would assume the role after leading the development of the "Arrow 3" missile defense system, one of Israel's key strategic air defense projects.

Ben Ezra's background

Ben Ezra is regarded as a prominent figure in Israel's defense and technology sectors. In addition to leading the "Arrow 3" missile defense program, he held senior positions within Israel's Shin Bet domestic security agency, overseeing operations, technology, and cybersecurity, according to Israeli media reports.

Hanegbi's departure

His appointment comes nearly a year after Hanegbi left the position he had held since January 2023. Netanyahu's office did not officially disclose the reasons for ending his tenure. However, Israeli media reported that Hanegbi's departure followed growing disagreements with Netanyahu over the management of the war in Gaza. Hanegbi opposed plans for a full Israeli occupation of Gaza and supported an interim agreement for a prisoner exchange and ceasefire.

Gaza war context

Israel has killed nearly 73,000 people and injured over 172,000 in a two-year war on Gaza since October 2023, causing widespread destruction affecting 90% of civilian infrastructure.