Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Israeli Spy Chief Accuses Netanyahu of Demanding Loyalty and Illegal Surveillance

Ronen Bar's affidavit to the Supreme Court alleges improper orders from the prime minister, deepening a constitutional crisis in Israel.

Image
Israeli Security Agency director Ronen Bar attends a memorial ceremony of the Hamas attack on October 7 last year that sparked the ongoing war in Gaza, at the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem on October 27, 2024. GIL COHEN-MAGEN/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
Image

Overview

  • Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar submitted an affidavit accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of demanding personal loyalty and ordering surveillance of anti-government protesters.
  • Bar also alleged Netanyahu sought to obstruct his corruption trial by pressuring him to approve measures preventing the prime minister from testifying.
  • Netanyahu's office has denied the accusations, calling the affidavit false and vowing to refute the claims in court.
  • The Supreme Court has temporarily suspended Bar's dismissal while legal deliberations continue, with both sides preparing detailed submissions.
  • Critics warn that the attempt to fire Bar threatens Israel's democratic institutions, fueling mass protests and intensifying national divisions.