Jerusalem, Mar 21 (V7N) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Ronen Bar, the head of Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency, for failing to prevent the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.

The Israeli cabinet formally approved the early removal of Bar on Thursday evening. Bar, who was appointed to a five-year term in October 2021, was dismissed after Netanyahu cited growing distrust over time.

The decision has triggered widespread anger, leading to anti-government protests in Jerusalem. Many demonstrators, including those opposing Israeli attacks on Gaza, have joined the protests.

Amid the political turmoil, Israel has resumed large-scale attacks on Hamas targets in Gaza since Tuesday, ending a two-month fragile ceasefire.

Critics, including Israel’s Attorney General, have condemned the move as politically motivated. The Shin Bet plays a key role in intelligence and security operations, and its leadership is traditionally kept out of political conflicts.

The October 7 Hamas attack resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages, according to Israeli claims. In retaliation, Israel launched an intense military operation in Gaza, which, according to the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry, has led to the deaths of over 48,500 Palestinians as of January 19, before the initial ceasefire took effect.

END/MSS/AJ