Intel director declares Netanyahu commanding security service to spy on demonstrators
(MENAFN) The outgoing head of Israel’s Shin Bet security agency, Ronen Bar, has accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of dismissing him for refusing to carry out unlawful orders, including spying on Israeli protestors.
Bar, who was officially removed last month, was reportedly fired over claims he failed to prevent the October 2023 Hamas attack and due to a loss of trust. His dismissal marked the first time a Shin Bet director has been fired by an Israeli government. However, the Israeli Supreme Court has since halted the termination with a temporary injunction.
In a 31-page affidavit submitted to the court on Monday, Bar challenged the government's explanation for his firing. He argued that it stemmed not from professional shortcomings but from his refusal to demonstrate personal loyalty to Netanyahu. Bar stated that the prime minister wanted the Shin Bet to monitor citizens involved in anti-government protests, with an emphasis on tracking the financial backers of these demonstrations.
Bar also claimed he was instructed to disregard court rulings in case of a constitutional crisis and to prioritize Netanyahu’s directives. Additionally, he alleged he was pressured to help the prime minister avoid testifying in his ongoing corruption trials.
Despite defending his position, Bar admitted that Shin Bet had made errors prior to the Israel-Hamas conflict and said he planned to step down before his term officially ends.
Netanyahu, who is currently on trial in three corruption cases involving allegations of bribery and accepting gifts in return for political favors, has denied all wrongdoing. In response to Bar’s affidavit, Netanyahu’s office dismissed the claims as false and said Bar had failed in his role during the Hamas attack.
Since the October assault, Israel has witnessed widespread protests. Many demonstrators, including families of hostages held in Gaza, have demanded Netanyahu’s resignation and called for early elections, blaming his leadership for security failures and the ongoing conflict.
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