Israeli government approves Netanyahu’s dismissal of Shin Bet head

CAIRO — The Israeli government unanimously approved early on Friday a proposal from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to dismiss Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, the prime minister’s office said.

“Ronen Bar will conclude his duties on April 10 or when a permanent ISA Director is appointed — whichever comes first,” it added.

On Sunday, Netanyahu told the head of the Shin Bet domestic intelligence service that he will ask the government to approve his dismissal this week.

Justifying his decision, Netanyahu said he had long ago lost confidence in Bar and that trust in the head of the domestic security service, whose roles include counter-terrorism and security for government officials, was especially crucial at a time of war.

Bar’s sacking is likely to draw widespread criticism amid a new Israeli offensive in Gaza with dozens of Israeli hostages still held there.

The war was triggered by Hamas’ terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023, one of Israel’s worst security failures, which led to the killing of 1,200 people, and the capture of 251 people who were taken to Gaza as hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

The Israeli campaign has killed more than 49,000 people in Gaza, Palestinian health authorities say, and caused a humanitarian crisis with shortages of food, fuel and water.