Netanyahu Plans Dismissal of Shin Bet Chief Amid Power Struggle

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced his intention to dismiss Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar amid ongoing tensions over accountability for the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that triggered the current Gaza conflict. Netanyahu cited a lack of trust in Bar, asserting that this distrust has grown over time and that Bar's removal is necessary to achieve Israel's war objectives. Bar has indicated he plans to resist the dismissal, emphasizing his commitment to ongoing investigations and the hostage situation in Gaza. The Shin Bet recently accepted some responsibility for its failures regarding the attack while also criticizing Netanyahu's government policies for creating a conducive environment for the assault. The situation has been exacerbated by investigations into Netanyahu's aides concerning their dealings with Qatar, further complicating the political landscape. This conflict comes at a time when Netanyahu has faced calls for greater accountability and transparency regarding security failures.