Israeli Government Dismisses Shin Bet Chief in Unprecedented Move
Prime Minister Netanyahu's Cabinet votes to remove Ronen Bar, intensifying Israel's political and constitutional crises.
- The Israeli Cabinet unanimously voted to dismiss Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, with his term ending by April 10, 2025, or upon the appointment of a successor.
- The decision defies the Attorney General's legal opinion, which stated that the dismissal required approval from an advisory committee.
- Bar's removal comes as the Shin Bet investigates allegations of financial misconduct involving Netanyahu's aides and Qatar during the Israel-Hamas war.
- Protests have erupted across Israel, with demonstrators accusing Netanyahu of undermining democracy and politicizing the Shin Bet.
- The government has also resumed airstrikes in Gaza, ending a two-month ceasefire and raising concerns about risks to hostages still held by Hamas.