Netanyahu Moves to Dismiss Shin Bet Chief Amid Political and Security

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has initiated steps to remove Ronen Bar, the chief of Israel’s domestic security service, Shin Bet, citing a lack of trust in his leadership. The decision comes amid heightened political turmoil and ongoing security concerns following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed more than 1,200 Israelis.

Netanyahu formally met with Bar and informed him of his intent to seek his removal. According to the Prime Minister’s office, the government is expected to approve the decision, though it may face appeals in Israel’s Supreme Court.

In response, Bar stated that he intends to fulfill his responsibilities before stepping down, emphasizing that his primary duty is to the citizens of Israel. He criticized Netanyahu’s expectations of personal loyalty, calling them “fundamentally wrong.”

Security and Political Motivations

In a video statement, Netanyahu justified his decision by stating that trust between the Prime Minister and the head of Shin Bet is essential, particularly during times of war. He argued that Bar’s dismissal is necessary for Israel to achieve its military objectives in Gaza and prevent future security threats.

Netanyahu has frequently criticized the Shin Bet for failing to prevent the Hamas attack. An internal investigation by the agency admitted failures in intelligence gathering and response, further straining relations between the agency and the government.

Beyond security concerns, the Shin Bet report also implicitly criticized Netanyahu’s administration, highlighting that Hamas received financial support through Qatari payments authorized by the Israeli government. The report suggested that internal political divisions in Israel, exacerbated by Netanyahu’s controversial judicial reforms, contributed to the timing of the October 7 attack.

Political Backlash and Support

The move to dismiss Bar has sparked political controversy. Opposition leader Yair Lapid accused Netanyahu of acting for political reasons, particularly as an investigation unfolds into potential lobbying efforts within Netanyahu’s office on behalf of Qatar.

“For a year and a half, he saw no reason to fire him,” Lapid stated. “But only when the investigation into Qatar’s involvement with Netanyahu’s closest aides began did he suddenly feel an urgent need to act.”

Benny Gantz, leader of the National Unity party, warned that the dismissal could endanger national security and further divide Israeli society. However, Netanyahu’s move received backing from members of the far-right coalition, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who claimed that Bar should have resigned over Shin Bet’s failures, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who has long advocated for Bar’s removal.

Future Implications

Bar’s dismissal would mark a significant shift in Israel’s security leadership amid the ongoing war in Gaza. It also highlights the deepening political rifts within Israel’s government, as Netanyahu faces increasing scrutiny over his handling of both security affairs and foreign policy decisions.

If the Supreme Court intervenes, Netanyahu’s authority to remove Bar could be challenged, setting the stage for yet another political showdown in Israel’s already volatile landscape.