Before security ???? There are stores and fast food BEHIND the airline check in counters and you don't have to go through security or check in to get there.

There is no lounge pre-security for business etc. passengers. The lounge(s) are all in the departure area. ( after security)

While you may know the "correct" answers for security, they are also watching body language. Since, thank G-d, there have been no incidents on aircraft leaving TLV ( and so many in the world would love to see that happen) security is obviously good at what they are doing and doing it right.