Netanyahu's Bid to Dismiss Shin Bet Chief Provokes Concern Over Intelligence Independence

On March 16, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to dismiss Ronen Bar, the director of the Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic intelligence agency. This development has ignited fears among critics who believe it may signal an attempt to compromise the agency's autonomy. The proposed dismissal highlights ongoing tensions between Netanyahu and top officials within Israel's security apparatus, particularly regarding the response to the ongoing war in Gaza.

Netanyahu's pivot to fire Bar comes in the context of investigations being conducted by Shin Bet into allegations concerning aides to the prime minister, including a serious claim of classified information being leaked to the press. The Prime Minister’s Office indicated that a draft resolution to dismiss Bar would be presented to the cabinet for approval soon. However, Gali Baharav-Miara, the attorney general, interjected, asserting that Netanyahu should not commence this removal process until legal clarity regarding Bar's termination is established. Baharav-Miara expressed concern that such action could present a conflict of interest, given the ongoing investigation into Netanyahu's aides.

The political landscape has further complicated the situation, with members of Netanyahu's coalition urging his immediate dismissal of Bar for allegedly jeopardizing the prime minister’s position. They have additionally called for the termination of Baharav-Miara, citing her strained rapport with Netanyahu. This series of events underscores the intricate power dynamics at play within Israeli politics, particularly as external pressures mount from ongoing conflicts in the region.