Netanyahu to Push for Removal of Shin Bet Director

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans Sunday to dismiss Ronen Bar, director of the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet), citing a critical lack of confidence and "ongoing distrust" in his leadership. The move marks a significant shakeup in Israel’s internal security command during one of the nation’s most challenging periods.

“At all times, but especially in such an existential war, the prime minister must have full confidence in the head of the Shin Bet,” Netanyahu declared in a statement, referencing the ongoing war against Hamas terrorists following the October 7 massacre. “Unfortunately, I do not have such confidence.”

Netanyahu intends to bring the matter before the Cabinet this week, submitting a resolution to remove Bar well before his current term is set to expire in October 2026. The decision follows months of reported tensions, with Netanyahu removing Bar from the Israeli negotiating team last month and accusing him of briefing journalists to undermine the government’s position.

While expressing appreciation for the dedicated men and women of the Shin Bet, Netanyahu emphasized that this leadership change is crucial to restoring the organization’s effectiveness and achieving Israel’s war objectives.

Ronen Bar, a seasoned security veteran who began his service in the elite General Staff Reconnaissance Unit and rose through the ranks since joining Shin Bet in 1993, responded firmly. He stressed that the loyalty of the Shin Bet lies with Israeli citizens, not individual political leaders. “Expectations of personal loyalty that contradict the public interest are fundamentally illegitimate,” Bar stated.

Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara quickly intervened, notifying Netanyahu that the dismissal process could not proceed without a full legal and factual review. She warned of the “extraordinary sensitivity” surrounding the dismissal of the Shin Bet head, especially given Israel’s current security climate.

Justice Minister Yariv Levin countered her stance, asserting the government’s clear authority under Israeli law to terminate Bar’s tenure, reaffirming that Israel’s democracy operates under the rule of law.

Several political figures voiced strong opinions on the matter. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich praised Netanyahu’s move, calling Bar’s refusal to step down after the October 7 intelligence failure unacceptable. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized the attorney general’s objections, urging expedited dismissals to prevent "deep state rule."

Meanwhile, opposition leaders Yair Lapid, Benny Gantz, and Yair Golan condemned the move, framing it as politically motivated. They pointed to an ongoing criminal investigation into alleged ties between Netanyahu’s office and Qatari elements—an investigation that intensified the controversy.

Bar reportedly intended to remain in office until the safe return of all hostages and a formal inquiry into the events of October 7. However, the Cabinet is set to consider his dismissal in a special session this week.

In the face of complex political and security dynamics, Israel remains steadfast in protecting its citizens and ensuring its security services operate with integrity and accountability.

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