Israeli Security Agency director Ronen Bar attends a memorial ceremony of the Hamas attack on October 7 last year that sparked the ongoing war in Gaza, at the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem on October 27, 2024. GIL COHEN-MAGEN/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
Shin Bet Chief Alleges Political Motives Behind Attempted Dismissal by Prime Minister Netanyahu
Intelligence Head Claims Pressure to Violate Protocol
Ronen Bar, Director of Israel’s domestic intelligence agency, Shin Bet, alleged on Monday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s attempt to dismiss him was driven by Bar’s refusal to carry out politically motivated requests, including surveilling anti-government protesters and interfering with Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial.
In a sworn affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court, Bar stated that Netanyahu’s March decision to seek his removal was not grounded in professional concerns, but rather stemmed from unmet expectations of personal loyalty. Bar’s account highlights several instances in which he claims he refused to comply with requests that would have compromised the agency’s integrity and neutrality.
Prime Minister’s Office Denies Allegations
In response, Netanyahu’s office dismissed Bar’s affidavit as “full of lies,” asserting that Bar’s removal was justified due to his failure to prevent the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack—an event widely considered one of the most serious security failures in Israel’s history. “This reason alone requires the termination of his position,” the statement read.
Netanyahu’s Likud party further accused Bar of turning parts of the Shin Bet into “a private militia of the Deep State,” and suggested he had acted in defiance of the prime minister.
Supreme Court Halts Dismissal Pending Review
The Supreme Court of Israel temporarily suspended Bar’s dismissal in March, following petitions by legal watchdogs and opposition lawmakers. They argued that the move breached due process and raised concerns over potential conflicts of interest.
The Court heard oral arguments on April 8 and has not yet issued a ruling on the legality of Bar’s removal.
Timeline of Alleged Political Pressure
Bar’s affidavit outlines a series of incidents between November 2024 and February 2025, which he believes prompted the attempt to remove him. Among them:
- Investigations into Classified Document Leaks: Shin Bet initiated inquiries into leaked military documents that reached the media.
- Probe of Ties to Qatar: Investigations were launched into potential links between Netanyahu aides and Qatar, a politically sensitive issue.
- Review of October 7 Failures: A Shin Bet internal review pointed to pre-attack intelligence that had not been acted upon by the government, contributing to the security breach.
Bar also referenced a request he declined to authorize, which was reportedly aimed at preventing Netanyahu from giving continuous testimony in his corruption trial, which began in December. Netanyahu has denied requesting such a postponement and maintains his innocence in the case.
Accusations of Targeting Protesters
Bar additionally alleged that Netanyahu sought to involve the Shin Bet in operations against Israeli protesters opposing his government. Bar stated that he resisted these efforts, citing the agency’s mandate to remain apolitical.
Investigation or Retaliation? Competing Narratives Emerge
Netanyahu’s office rejected any claim that the dismissal was tied to the so-called “Qatargate” investigation. In a statement, the prime minister’s office argued, “The dismissal was not intended to prevent the investigation. Rather, the investigation was intended to prevent the dismissal.”
Future of the Shin Bet Chief
Despite standing by the agency’s conduct, Bar has acknowledged Shin Bet’s failure to anticipate the October 7 attack and stated he intends to resign before the conclusion of his term.
The Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision could set a significant precedent for the independence of Israel’s security institutions and the balance of power between the executive branch and intelligence services.
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