In a significant government decision, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has led a vote to dismiss Ronen Bar, the head of Israel’s internal security service, Shin Bet. The decision comes after Netanyahu criticized Bar's performance, suggesting that his removal is necessary to achieve Israel’s war objectives in Gaza and to "prevent the next disaster." The move follows Netanyahu's frequent criticisms of Shin Bet, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that claimed over 1,200 lives.
Netanyahu has expressed that the head of Shin Bet must have his full confidence, a criterion he believes Bar no longer meets. This sentiment was echoed by an Israeli official who stated that Netanyahu had "lost all confidence in Ronen Bar." The Prime Minister's Office emphasized the urgency of this change to ensure Israel’s security goals are met following the severe security lapses revealed by the attacks.
Ronen Bar has countered Netanyahu's assertions by stating that the Prime Minister's criticism poses a direct threat to Israel’s security. Just hours before his dismissal, Bar expressed in a statement that the cabinet's decision was a "grave mistake." He further argued that the process "was hastily convened, contrary to every basic legal rule dealing with the right to be heard."
The vote to remove Bar took place in the early hours of Friday local time, and it could be subject to appeals by Israel’s Supreme Court. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has already intervened, sending a letter to Netanyahu stating that Bar’s dismissal requires the approval of a special committee. Netanyahu responded sharply to this intervention, accusing Baharav-Miara of "exceeding her authority" and "giving legal opinions and instructions to the government in violation of Supreme Court rulings."
Adding to the complexity, Shin Bet conducted an internal investigation which concluded that the agency had "failed in its mission" to prevent the October 7 attacks. This failure has been a focal point in Netanyahu’s criticism and decision-making process.
Netanyahu had previously removed both Bar and David Barnea, head of Mossad, from negotiations with Hamas, signaling his ongoing distrust. Despite these actions, the dismissal of Bar is not yet finalized and could face legal challenges, potentially affecting its implementation.
