TEL AVIV - The head of Israel's internal intelligence service, the Shin Bet, Ronen Bar, has announced that he will step down from his post on June 15, 2025. The decision comes at a time when Israel is facing heightened tensions both domestically and in regional relations, while continuing an internal review of its security policy in the wake of the events of the past year.
Bar, who has led the Shin Bet since 2021, informed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the relevant security committees of his intention to resign. In his official statement, Bar said his decision was motivated by "personal responsibility" and the need to enable new leadership at a time when Israel is redefining its security strategy in the face of changing threats. "I believe the Shin Bet needs new energy and new ideas to ensure the protection of our nation in the decades to come," Bar said.
According to Israeli media, Bar played a key role in directing operations against terrorist threats in the West Bank, coordinating with the army during the conflict with Hamas, and fighting cyberattacks. However, criticism of him has intensified, particularly after the October 2024 terrorist attack, when the ability of Israeli intelligence to detect the preparations of radical groups in time was called into question.
Ronen Bar's resignation thus becomes part of broader changes in Israel's security apparatus. Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to name his successor in the coming weeks. The favourites, according to Israeli media, include senior security experts from the army and the current Shin Bet leadership, with the ability to adapt quickly to new forms of threats, including hybrid conflicts and cyber attacks, a key criterion.
Analysts point out that the change in leadership at the Shin Bet comes at a critical time when Israel is facing not only external threats but also internal challenges in the form of a polarized society and heightened tensions between different communities. Bar's resignation is seen as a symbolic recognition of the need for a new approach and a strategic reassessment of security sector priorities.
The outgoing Shin Bet chief thanked all service members for their "tireless dedication and courage" and expressed confidence that the new generation of leadership would be able to meet all future challenges. Ronen Bar plans to work in academic and security consulting on an interim basis after leaving office.
gnews.cz - GH
