The **Israeli Security Cabinet**, formally known as the Ministerial Committee for National Security Affairs, is a key decision-making body within Israel’s government responsible for security and foreign policy. It is a smaller subset of the full government, composed of the Prime Minister (who chairs it), the Defense Minister, the Justice Minister, the Finance Minister, the National Security Minister, and other appointed ministers, with membership limited to no more than half the total government ministers[1][2].
Established under the Government Law of 2001, the Security Cabinet has the explicit authority to decide on matters of war, including the power to initiate military action, delegated permanently by the government since 2018. This delegation allows for swift decision-making during security crises without requiring the full government’s involvement[1]. The cabinet plays a crucial role in overseeing Israel’s national security doctrine, war conduct, ceasefires, and strategic responses to evolving threats, guided by recommendations from commissions such as the Amidror Commission[3][4].
Historically, the Security Cabinet has been pivotal in managing Israel’s complex security challenges, balancing military operations with diplomatic considerations. Its decisions are influential in shaping Israel’s defense posture, including coordination among security agencies like the IDF (Israel Defense Forces), Mossad, and Shin Bet. The cabinet’s structure aims to centralize sensitive security decisions for confidentiality and efficiency while incorporating diverse ministerial perspectives[2][6].
Notably, the cabinet operates without a formal written constitution but is governed by Basic Laws that regulate its powers and ensure government accountability to the Knesset (Israel’s parliament)[5]. Although its powers are strong, debates continue about the legal formalization of its authority to enhance democratic oversight and public confidence[3].
Currently, the Security Cabinet includes key ministers from coalition parties, reflecting Israel’s political landscape and ensuring coordinated national security policy amidst ongoing regional tensions[1]. Its combination of political leadership and security expertise makes it a critical institution at the intersection of governance, defense, and technology innovation