Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cancelled the appointment of retired Admiral Eli Sharvit as the new head of the Shin Bet, citing security concerns. The move came just hours after Sharvit was announced as the winner, sparking outrage among opposition leaders who accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political pressure over state security.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the decision, calling it “a violation of state security”. National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz said Netanyahu’s actions proved that he values political pressure over the good of the state and its security. However, Religious Zionist Party MK Simcha Rothman defended Netanyahu’s decision, arguing that it was a necessary exercise in democracy.
A senior Likud official revealed that Sharvit was initially chosen for his participation in anti-government protests, suggesting that Netanyahu prioritized state considerations over other factors. The move has sparked tension in the country, with many questioning whether Netanyahu’s actions are truly in the best interests of Israel.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-848369