Arik Barbing, a former Shin Bet regional and cyber chief, urged licensed gun owners to carry firearms to synagogues during Yom Kippur, saying it is "impossible to provide airtight security for every synagogue." He called on synagogue leaders to ensure an armed presence as a minimum life‑saving measure and described civilian gun owners as "the first line of defense." Barbing said concerns about weapons being turned against Israelis are being handled by security forces and that the West Bank security situation has changed since the lead‑up to October 7.
Former Shin Bet Commander Urges Licensed Gun Owners To Carry Firearms At Yom Kippur Services
An ultra-Orthodox Jewish man carrying a gun and a first aid bag, walks by the Separation Wall at the entrance to the Jewish religious site of Rachel
Arik Barbing, a former Shin Bet commander who led the agency's Jerusalem and West Bank district and previously headed its cyber division, told 103FM that licensed gun owners should carry their weapons when attending synagogue during Yom Kippur. He said the current threat environment makes it "impossible to provide airtight security for every synagogue," and urged synagogue leadership to ensure an armed presence as a basic life‑saving measure.
Barbing's Appeal
"We have had serious incidents at synagogues and also at the Mercaz Harav Yeshiva, unfortunately, and it is very difficult, especially for me as a Jew, but it is impossible to provide airtight security for every synagogue," Barbing said. "Therefore, I am appealing to the public: There are many more weapons in civilian hands now than there were in the past. Synagogue leaders should make sure that armed people come. This is the minimum. It is a matter of saving lives. The best solution is responsibility and an understanding that we are in a very sensitive security situation, and that synagogues are targets for terrorists who may carry out attacks. I think gun owners are the first line of defense for those worshipers. That is the solution at the moment."
On The Risk Of Weapons Being Turned
Interviewers also asked Barbing about the possibility of a so‑called "turning of the guns," in which weapons held by Palestinian security forces might be used against Israelis. He said the risk "needs to be addressed, and it is being addressed, by the military, the Shin Bet, and additional bodies," and added that preparations for such scenarios should be handled discreetly.
Religious IDF Israeli soldiers pray during a training of the Ultra-Orthodox Unit at the Givati Brigade near the Israeli city of Beit Shemesh, September 27, 2017. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)
"That discussion should take place professionally and should not reach the media, which the Palestinians also listen to. Merely discussing the issue publicly brings it back to the forefront and creates tension," he said.
Security Situation In The West Bank
Barbing also said the security reality in the West Bank has changed since the run-up to October 7. "The IDF and the security forces are in control there and can reach any point at any time. Arrests are carried out every night, from the refugee camps in Jenin to the South Hebron Hills. The IDF is operating deep inside the territory, and there is activity there. That was not the case on October 7," he said.
He added that he was not aware of any organized "turning of the guns," but warned that a local incident could escalate into something more serious and take actors by surprise. Barbing said the IDF is prepared to respond, but stressed the need for vigilance and responsible behavior by the public and religious communities.
Photo caption: Religious IDF soldiers pray during a training of the Ultra‑Orthodox Unit at the Givati Brigade near Beit Shemesh, September 27, 2017. (credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)
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