Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar Signals Resignation Only After Hostages Are Freed

Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar has indicated that he will remain in his position at the Israel Security Agency until all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are released, according to a report by N12.

Bar made it clear that he is not satisfied with the return of 197 hostages while 59 remain in captivity. "I am still looking at the 59 who remain there," he reportedly stated, reinforcing his commitment to bringing every hostage home before stepping down.

Additionally, Bar has pledged to ensure the establishment of a state investigation committee to examine the failures of October 7, when Hamas terrorists launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. "As soon as I see this happening, I will want to pass the baton to one of my two excellent deputies," he said.

Bar and outgoing IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi previously opposed State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman’s attempt to conduct an internal probe into the events of October 7. They have maintained that a state-level inquiry should take precedence over any premature investigations.

Meanwhile, reports in mid-February revealed that Bar was no longer part of Israel's hostage negotiation team, though his continued leadership at Shin Bet suggests his focus remains on the hostages' return.

With the safety of those still held in Gaza weighing heavily on Israel’s leadership, Bar’s decision underscores the nation’s unwavering determination to bring them home. The mission is not over, and neither is his watch.

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