Israeli Security Cabinet Votes to Dismiss Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar Amid Growing Tensions

The Israeli Security Cabinet has voted to remove Ronen Bar, Director of the Israeli Security Agency (Shin Bet), following months of escalating tensions and distrust between him and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Netanyahu, these issues originated after the events of October 7th. During tonight’s meeting, the Cabinet determined that Bar would leave his position within 30 days or upon the appointment of a successor. His dismissal is expected to trigger widespread protests across Israel.

Bar’s removal comes in the midst of a major scandal and investigation involving the Office of Prime Minister Netanyahu. Shin Bet and other law enforcement agencies are probing allegations that Israeli businessmen, working with Qatari government lobbyists, funneled money to officials and advisors close to Netanyahu. The Israeli media has dubbed the case “Qatar-Gate,” with at least two individuals already arrested in connection to the inquiry. Netanyahu has dismissed the investigation as a fabrication by the "leftist Deep State," drawing comparisons to legal challenges faced by former U.S. President Donald Trump.