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6d ago

Israeli Spy Chief Accuses Netanyahu of Misusing Intelligence Agency

Ronen Bar alleges demands for personal loyalty, surveillance of protesters, and interference in corruption trial in sworn affidavit to Supreme Court.

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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
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Overview

  • Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar submitted a sworn affidavit to Israel's Supreme Court accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of politicizing the intelligence agency.
  • Bar alleged that Netanyahu demanded personal loyalty, sought surveillance of anti-government protesters, and requested assistance to delay his corruption trial testimony.
  • Netanyahu's March attempt to dismiss Bar, citing a loss of confidence after the October 2023 Hamas attack, was suspended by the Supreme Court pending further hearings.
  • Bar claims the dismissal was retaliation for his refusal to comply with Netanyahu's demands, asserting professional grounds were not the true motive.
  • Mass protests continue across Israel, with critics warning that the targeting of the Shin Bet chief threatens democratic norms and institutional integrity.