Netanyahu moves to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar amid trust issues
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (left) and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, on April 4, 2023 (Courtesy of Times of Israel)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced his decision to dismiss Ronen Bar, the head of Israel’s internal security agency, Shin Bet, due to a lack of trust.
In his statement, Netanyahu revealed that he would ask the government to remove Bar from his position, citing ongoing trust issues.
Due to the continued lack of trust, I have decided to bring a proposal to the government to terminate the Shin Bet leader’s position.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Netanyahu accuses Shin Bet chief of campaign against Him
Netanyahu accused Bar of leading a media campaign against him. The Prime Minister’s office issued a statement indicating that Bar had orchestrated a widespread blackmail campaign through the media.
Netanyahu emphasized that the primary goal of this campaign was to block necessary reforms within Shin Bet following the security failures of October 7.
Netanyahu criticizes former Shin Bet Chief Nadav Argaman
Netanyahu also referred to former Shin Bet Chief Nadav Argaman, saying, “Another dangerous red line has been crossed in Israeli democracy. In no democracy does a former intelligence chief publicly blackmail and threaten a sitting prime minister on live television.”
Argaman had previously mentioned in an interview with Channel 12 that if Netanyahu were to act unlawfully, he would reveal the information he possessed.
Shin Bet responds to Netanyahu’s accusations
Shin Bet responded to Netanyahu’s accusations, calling them unfounded. In a statement, the agency said, “These are dangerous claims directed at the head of a national security organization in Israel. Ronen Bar dedicates all his time to security issues, retrieving captives, and protecting democracy. These accusations are entirely baseless.”
Far-right ex-minister Ben-Gvir supports Netanyahu
Israel’s far-right ex-minister Itamar Ben-Gvir voiced his support for Netanyahu.
The Prime Minister is right. Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar cannot remain in his position for another minute. He must be removed immediately.
Itamar Ben-Gvir
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