In a major shake-up within Israel’s security establishment, Ronen Bar, the head of Israel’s domestic intelligence service Shin Bet, has announced his resignation. Bar will officially step down on June 15, Israeli media reported late Monday.
This development follows weeks of political tension between Bar and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The friction first became public on March 16, when Netanyahu declared that he had “long ago” lost confidence in Bar — a serious claim given Shin Bet’s critical role in counter-terrorism and protecting government officials, especially during times of war.
Netanyahu Tried to Oust Bar Earlier
The situation escalated when Netanyahu attempted to remove Bar from office. However, the Israeli Supreme Court intervened, temporarily freezing the government’s effort to sack him.
Bar reportedly claimed that Netanyahu sought his dismissal after he refused requests to spy on Israeli protesters and interfere in the prime minister’s ongoing corruption trial — allegations that Netanyahu strongly denied, calling Bar a liar.
Shin Bet at the Center of Political Storm
The Shin Bet has found itself caught between Israel’s right-wing government and a wave of critics, including members of the security establishment and families of hostages held in Gaza. Bar’s resignation adds another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile political climate.
An investigation or further fallout from this resignation could have serious implications for Israel’s internal security operations going forward.
