Netanyahu Names Shmuel Ben Ezra as Israel’s Next National Security Chief

The Prime Minister’s Office announced this evening (Sunday) that Netanyahu has decided to appoint Shmuel Ben Ezra as head of the National Security Council and as the prime minister’s national security adviser.

The statement said: "Ben Ezra brings with him more than 30 years of experience protecting the security of the state. He led the development project for the 'Arrow 3' interceptor missile, which won the Israel Security Prize. In his most recent role at the Shin Bet, he served for four years as head of the Technology for Operations and Cyber Division (equivalent to the rank of major general)."

Ben Ezra holds a bachelor’s degree in applied physics, a master’s degree in applied physics, a master’s degree in business administration, and a master’s degree in political science in the field of national security. He is a graduate of the National Security College.

Netanyahu’s office added: "Shmuel Ben Ezra is marked by groundbreaking thinking and a deep familiarity with the worlds of security and technology. Ben Ezra has many years of experience working with government officials in the U.S. and around the world. He will assist the prime minister in strengthening the security, diplomatic, and economic resilience of the State of Israel and advancing it as a global technological power."

As previously reported, in October 2025, Tzachi Hanegbi completed his term as head of the National Security Council. Gil Reich served as acting head until three months ago, when he was appointed director of security for the defense establishment at the Defense Ministry. Reich’s appointment was approved by the government.