Netanyahu Clashes with Shin Bet and Opposition Over October 7 Investigation

Watan-The political confrontation in Israel has intensified between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, opposition leaders, and the Shin Bet (Israel’s internal security agency) regarding the agency’s role in the October 7 attacks and subsequent developments.

Opposition Criticism of Netanyahu

Opposition leader Yair Lapid strongly criticized Netanyahu’s statements about Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, calling them a complete deviation from the right path. Lapid warned that Netanyahu’s remarks were dangerous and undermined the agency responsible for protecting Israeli security.

On Thursday, Netanyahu accused Ronen Bar of leading a campaign to prevent him from making the necessary reforms to the agency following what he described as its “catastrophic failure” on October 7, 2023.

The tension between Netanyahu and Shin Bet has escalated in recent days after the prime minister criticized the agency’s investigation into the October 7 events, arguing that it failed to answer key questions.

Accusations Against Netanyahu

The leader of the opposition State Camp party stated that attacking a government institution for political reasons is a move against national security, accusing Netanyahu of doing precisely that during a time of significant challenges.

Meanwhile, Yair Golan, leader of the Israeli Democratic Party, responded to Netanyahu’s accusations by stating:”The real mafia is the gang running this country through lies.”

In a post on X, Golan accused Netanyahu of “selling out Israel’s security for his own political survival” and viewing those who serve the state rather than his personal interests as enemies.

Golan also defended both the current Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and former director Nadav Argaman, describing them as “loyal, courageous, and dedicated servants of the state” who have devoted their lives to Israel’s security. He called Netanyahu’s attack on them a “desperate attempt to intimidate state guardians and deter anyone who dares to challenge him.”

Shin Bet Responds

The Shin Bet issued a statement rejecting Netanyahu’s accusations, calling them a “serious allegation against a government organization in the State of Israel.”

The statement emphasized that Ronen Bar dedicates his time to ensuring security, retrieving hostages, and defending democracy.

Israeli Channel 13 quoted former Shin Bet chief Nadav Argaman as warning:

“If Prime Minister Netanyahu acts against the law, I will reveal everything I know.”

Netanyahu dismissed what he called “mafia-style criminal threats,” asserting that he would do whatever is necessary to guarantee Israel’s security.

Argaman also called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza, saying:”We must stop the war in Gaza immediately and bring back all the hostages. There is no reason to stay in Gaza.”

Netanyahu: “Mafia-Style Threats”

In response to Argaman’s comments, Netanyahu said:”Never in Israel’s history has a former security chief openly threatened and blackmailed a sitting prime minister on live television.”

He added that this was part of a “wider campaign of blackmail and threats” led by the current Shin Bet chief to prevent him from making necessary reforms following the agency’s “catastrophic failure” on October 7.

Netanyahu reiterated his rejection of what he called “mafia-style criminal threats” and vowed to take all necessary steps to ensure Israel’s security.

Argaman, despite not speaking Arabic, is considered deeply knowledgeable about Palestinian society, having been in constant security contact with it during the Second Intifada. He also played a major role in the 2002 military operation Defensive Shield in the West Bank.

Far-Right Calls for Shin Bet Chief’s Dismissal

Among Netanyahu’s supporters, far-right Knesset member and former Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir joined the attack against Ronen Bar, calling for his dismissal.

In a post on X, Ben Gvir wrote:

“The prime minister (Netanyahu) is right—Ronen Bar should not remain in his position for another minute. He must be dismissed.”