Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Defends Firing of Shin Bet Chief Amid Protests
Netanyahu asserts decision predates investigation into alleged ties with Qatar as public unrest escalates.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation on Saturday, asserting that the decision to dismiss Ronen Bar, the director of the Shin Bet domestic security agency, was made prior to Bar's announcement regarding an investigation linking the prime minister's office to the Qatari government.
Netanyahu stated that the decision was based on an agency report related to the October 7, 2023 attack rather than the initiation of the investigation into alleged connections with Qatar.
Bar’s investigation, which commenced in early February, scrutinizes claims that officials in Netanyahu's office received funds to further Qatari interests.
Protests erupted following Bar's dismissal, with tens of thousands of Israelis taking to the streets, voicing concerns that this move threatens the nation’s democratic foundations.
The demonstrations coincided with renewed airstrikes in the Gaza Strip this week, which have reportedly resulted in over 590 fatalities, including at least 200 children, disrupting a two-month ceasefire.
In a ruling from Israel's Supreme Court, Netanyahu's decision to remove Bar has been temporarily suspended pending a hearing by April 8. The attorney general has indicated that Netanyahu cannot appoint a successor to Bar in the interim.
On social media platform X, Netanyahu reiterated his authority to appoint and dismiss heads of national security agencies, asserting that Israel is governed by the rule of law.
He emphasized that there will be no 'civil war' in response to the political unrest, underscoring the government's right to determine the leadership of the Shin Bet.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid has called for national strikes if Netanyahu fails to adhere to the Supreme Court's ruling, declaring that such non-compliance would place the government 'outside of the law.' Lapid's party condemned Bar's firing, suggesting it reflects conflicts of interest in the current government.
Netanyahu is currently embroiled in three corruption trials, facing allegations of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust.
A court appearance originally scheduled for him on Tuesday was canceled due to the military's escalated operations in Gaza.
Additionally, Netanyahu has sought the dismissal of attorney general Gali Baharav-Miara, a notable critic.
The cabinet is expected to convene to initiate her removal process.
Calls from demonstrators also highlight the necessity for negotiations aimed at securing the release of hostages held in Gaza, emphasizing the need for humanitarian assistance and a return to peace negotiations.
Netanyahu stated that the decision was based on an agency report related to the October 7, 2023 attack rather than the initiation of the investigation into alleged connections with Qatar.
Bar’s investigation, which commenced in early February, scrutinizes claims that officials in Netanyahu's office received funds to further Qatari interests.
Protests erupted following Bar's dismissal, with tens of thousands of Israelis taking to the streets, voicing concerns that this move threatens the nation’s democratic foundations.
The demonstrations coincided with renewed airstrikes in the Gaza Strip this week, which have reportedly resulted in over 590 fatalities, including at least 200 children, disrupting a two-month ceasefire.
In a ruling from Israel's Supreme Court, Netanyahu's decision to remove Bar has been temporarily suspended pending a hearing by April 8. The attorney general has indicated that Netanyahu cannot appoint a successor to Bar in the interim.
On social media platform X, Netanyahu reiterated his authority to appoint and dismiss heads of national security agencies, asserting that Israel is governed by the rule of law.
He emphasized that there will be no 'civil war' in response to the political unrest, underscoring the government's right to determine the leadership of the Shin Bet.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid has called for national strikes if Netanyahu fails to adhere to the Supreme Court's ruling, declaring that such non-compliance would place the government 'outside of the law.' Lapid's party condemned Bar's firing, suggesting it reflects conflicts of interest in the current government.
Netanyahu is currently embroiled in three corruption trials, facing allegations of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust.
A court appearance originally scheduled for him on Tuesday was canceled due to the military's escalated operations in Gaza.
Additionally, Netanyahu has sought the dismissal of attorney general Gali Baharav-Miara, a notable critic.
The cabinet is expected to convene to initiate her removal process.
Calls from demonstrators also highlight the necessity for negotiations aimed at securing the release of hostages held in Gaza, emphasizing the need for humanitarian assistance and a return to peace negotiations.
