Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has nominated Vice Adm. Eli Sharvit as the new head of the Shin Bet. This decision follows his attempt to remove Ronen Bar, the current agency chief, due to a “crisis of confidence.” Critics argue that Netanyahu’s move is politically motivated.
Netanyahu: The Controversial Dismissal of Ronen Bar
Earlier this month, Netanyahu announced his decision to fire Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. He claimed that he lost trust in Bar after Hamas’ attacks on October 7, 2023. He also cited disagreements over ceasefire negotiations.
However, critics see this as a threat to Israel’s independent institutions. They believe the move is linked to an ongoing investigation into ties between Qatar and Netanyahu’s close advisers. The High Court froze Bar’s dismissal pending further hearings. The court also allowed Netanyahu to interview candidates for the position.
Netanyahu: Eli Sharvit’s Appointment
On Monday, Netanyahu’s office confirmed Sharvit’s nomination. “After conducting in-depth interviews with seven worthy candidates, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided to appoint Vice-Admiral Eli Sharvit as the next director of the ISA (Shin Bet),” the statement said.
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara had previously ruled that Netanyahu could not appoint a new Shin Bet chief. Despite this, Netanyahu proceeded with the nomination.
Sharvit’s Military Background
Eli Sharvit joined the Israeli Navy in 1985. He started as an officer and later commanded several missile boats. His leadership extended to key roles in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
During the Second Lebanon War in 2006, he commanded a naval squadron. Between 2007 and 2009, he served in the IDF Operations Directorate. This was his only role outside the Navy.
He later returned to lead the missile boat fleet. From 2011 to 2014, he commanded the Haifa naval base. In 2014, he became the chief of staff in the Navy. By 2016, he was promoted to vice admiral and took command of the entire Navy.
Experience in Conflict and Civilian Roles
Sharvit led the Navy until 2021. He played a key role during the May 2021 conflict with Hamas. After retiring from the military, he transitioned to senior roles in civilian companies.
Earlier this month, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir appointed Sharvit to a special panel. This panel of former officers is tasked with reviewing military investigations related to the October 7 attacks.
Unfamiliar with Shin Bet’s Operations
Sharvit’s nomination raises concerns. He has no prior experience within the Shin Bet. He also lacks familiarity with Arabic and Palestinian affairs. However, he is not the first outsider to lead the agency. In 1996, Ami Ayalon, also a former Navy commander, was appointed Shin Bet chief after Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s assassination.
High Court Decision Pending
For now, Ronen Bar’s dismissal remains frozen. The Supreme Court will hear appeals before April 8. Until then, the political and legal battle over Israel’s domestic security leadership continues. For the latest updates on government announcements, and breaking news, News Trendzs remains the world news site for reliable and up-to-date information.
