Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Shmuel Ben-Ezra as the new chief of the National Security Council and as his National Security Advisor. Ben-Ezra brings over 30 years of experience in security, technology, and cyber. He is notably recognized for leading the development of the Arrow-3 air defense system, which earned the Israel Security Prize. His academic credentials include a BA and MA in Applied Physics, an MBA, and an MA in Political Science focused on National Security, all achieved with distinction. Netanyahu stated that Ben-Ezra's innovative thinking and extensive international experience would be instrumental in fortifying Israel's security and enhancing its status as a global technological power. Ben-Ezra succeeds Tzachi Hanegbi, who was informed of his replacement in October 2025. Hanegbi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Israel's foreign and security policy during challenging times, emphasizing the importance of professional discourse even amidst disagreements.