Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, citing a breakdown in trust. Bar, however, insists his removal is not tied to Shin Bet’s failures on October 7 but is a personal decision by Netanyahu.
He vows to remain in his role until hostages are returned, key investigations are completed, and a successor is ready. “As Shin Bet chief on October 7, I took responsibility and will see it through before my tenure ends.”
Bar emphasizes that Shin Bet has already conducted internal reviews exposing intelligence failures, while government policies that ignored repeated warnings remain unexamined. He stresses the need for a full investigation into all decision-makers, including Netanyahu.
With security tensions rising and a possible escalation in Gaza, Bar argues that his continued presence is a matter of public responsibility.
He rejects Netanyahu’s expectation of personal loyalty, stating, “The Shin Bet’s duty is to Israeli citizens, not political interests.”
Shin Bet confirmed that Bar has informed Netanyahu he will comply with legal protocols regarding his dismissal.
PM Netanyahu: “Due to ongoing distrust, I will propose dismissing the head of the Shin Bet at the next government meeting. In times of war—especially an existential one—the Prime Minister must fully trust the Shin Bet chief. Unfortunately, I do not.” https://t.co/W4ydbgwWnr pic.twitter.com/VqSQPIop3O
— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) March 16, 2025
