Former Shin Bet official warns Israelis to bring weapons to synagogues during Yom Kippur prayers

Arik Barbing, a former Shin Bet official, advised licensed gun owners to carry their weapons when attending synagogue on Yom Kippur, citing past incidents and the difficulty of providing "airtight security for every synagogue." He urged synagogue leaders to ensure armed individuals are present, stating, "I think gun owners are the first line of defense for those worshipers." Barbing also addressed the potential for Palestinian police weapons to be used against Israelis, noting that this scenario is being addressed discreetly by security forces. He emphasized that the current security situation in the West Bank differs significantly from that before October 7, with the IDF maintaining control and conducting nightly operations.