Netanyahu Withdraws Nominee for Shin Bet Amid Controversy
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to step back from his recent nominee for the head of Israel’s domestic intelligence service, following intense criticism from his conservative allies. This backlash emerged after the nominee, Eli Sharvit, voiced concerns about former President Donald Trump and was reported to have opposed the judicial reforms championed by Netanyahu’s administration.
Netanyahu had initially endorsed Sharvit, a former commander of the Israeli navy, to lead the Shin Bet intelligence agency, a critical institution involved in Israel’s security operations, particularly in the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the long-standing occupation of the West Bank. This decision to replace the incumbent, Ronen Bar, sparked significant public protests, highlighting the contentious nature of the leadership change.
However, just one day after announcing Sharvit’s nomination, Netanyahu opted to withdraw his support, influenced by a strong reaction from the right. Critics pointed to a column written by Sharvit two months prior, in which he criticized Trump’s rollback of climate change policies, as a key factor in the backlash.
In a statement, Netanyahu’s office confirmed that he met with Sharvit to discuss the decision to explore other candidates for the position, although no specific reasons were provided for the change in direction.
The Shin Bet, as Israel’s domestic security agency, holds significant power and responsibility, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict. Netanyahu’s decision to dismiss Bar last month was justified by claims of a loss of trust, but many observers interpreted this move as an attempt to eliminate dissenting voices from Israel’s security leadership. Bar’s tenure included investigations into the connections of some of Netanyahu’s aides with Qatar, amid allegations of illicit financial transactions involving individuals linked to the Qatari government.
As legal proceedings unfold, Israel’s Supreme Court is set to hear petitions challenging Bar’s removal next week, with legal experts suggesting that the court may overturn Netanyahu’s decision. Concerns among Netanyahu’s left-wing and centrist opponents regarding his potential consolidation of power within the Shin Bet were palpable. Nevertheless, many had viewed Sharvit, who concluded his military career in 2021, as a well-respected and highly capable candidate for the role.
