Netanyahu Seeks to Remove Head of Israel’s Shin Bet Amid Controversy

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans on Sunday to dismiss Ronen Bar, the head of Israel's Shin Bet intelligence agency, a move that has triggered alarm regarding the agency's autonomy and the ongoing political strife within Israel's security leadership. The effort follows investigations by Shin Bet into alleged misconduct by Netanyahu's aides, including potential leaks to foreign media. Despite Netanyahu's statements, Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara emphasized that the legality of such a termination must first be assessed, citing potential conflicts of interest given the ongoing investigations. Supporters of Netanyahu within his coalition have voiced their desire for Bar's removal, claiming he has undermined the prime minister.

Netanyahu's actions come amidst heightened security-related concerns and fractious relations with prominent defense figures over approaches to the current conflict in Gaza, further complicating an already tense political landscape.