Wed May 21 18:06:10 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Supreme Court Deems Dismissal of Security Chief Ronen Bar “Unlawful”

**Jerusalem -** In a sharp rebuke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled the attempt to dismiss domestic security chief Ronen Bar as “unlawful.” The ruling highlights significant irregularities in the process and the lack of a formal hearing afforded to Bar.

The court stated the government’s decision to terminate Bar’s tenure as head of the Shin Bet was made through an “improper and unlawful process.” This decision comes after months of political turmoil stemming from accusations and counter-accusations between Netanyahu and Bar concerning security failures related to the October 7th Hamas attack.

While Netanyahu initially cited a breakdown in “trust” linked to the October 7th events, Bar argued that the Prime Minister’s true motivation stemmed from events between November 2024 and February 2025. Bar alleged Netanyahu had repeatedly pressured the Shin Bet to take action against participants in anti-government demonstrations, particularly focusing on their financial backers. He further claimed he refused a security request aimed at relieving Netanyahu from testifying in his ongoing corruption trial.

The court’s ruling pointed out the absence of a “factual basis” for Bar’s dismissal and the failure to provide him with a formal hearing before his termination. The court noted “irregularities” in the dismissal process and “a disregard for fundamental principles regarding internal security.”

The initial cabinet vote to dismiss Bar in March triggered widespread protests, with many accusing the government of autocratic tendencies. The High Court of Justice subsequently halted the decision pending a full hearing.

While the government revoked the dismissal decision in April, a day after Bar announced his intention to step down, the Supreme Court proceeded to rule on the legality of the initial attempt. In light of Bar’s resignation, the Supreme Court stated that Wednesday’s ruling “puts an end to the [legal] procedure.” However, the decision remains a significant critique of the government’s actions and underscores the ongoing tension between the executive and judicial branches in Israel.

Read More