Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Accuses Shin Bet Chief of ‘Coup Attempt,’ Sparks Political Crisis

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has accused Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar of attempting a political coup, escalating tensions within the government and security establishment. The allegations come amid a deepening rift between hardliners in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration and the country’s intelligence agencies.

Ben-Gvir claimed on Monday that Bar was secretly gathering intelligence on him and other senior officials, including members of the Israel Police and Prison Service. According to the minister, this was an attempt to undermine the government and interfere in political affairs.

“Ronen Bar has acted against the democratic process, collecting classified information on a sitting minister. This is nothing short of a coup attempt,” Ben-Gvir said during a press conference in the Knesset.

The controversy erupted following reports that Shin Bet had been conducting a covert inquiry into alleged far-right infiltration of Israeli law enforcement agencies. Israeli media claim that Bar raised concerns as early as September 2024, stating that elements aligned with radical Kahanist ideology were influencing police operations.

In response to Ben-Gvir’s accusations, Shin Bet issued a statement denying any improper political surveillance but acknowledged monitoring security threats linked to extremist influences. Bar reportedly told government officials that such claims against him could lead to severe consequences, stating:

“First, they accuse me of treason. Now, they want me imprisoned. What’s next—execution?”

The political fallout has led to mass protests across Israel, with demonstrators opposing Netanyahu’s decision to dismiss Bar. Israel’s Supreme Court intervened, temporarily blocking Bar’s removal and scheduling a hearing for April 8 to determine the legality of his dismissal.

Netanyahu’s office responded swiftly, clarifying that the prime minister had not authorized any Shin Bet investigation into political figures. However, sources indicate that Bar had previously informed Netanyahu about security risks related to far-right infiltration and was advised to present solid evidence rather than act unilaterally.

As tensions rise, clashes between protesters and police have intensified, with authorities using water cannons and mass arrests to disperse crowds. Analysts warn that this crisis could destabilize Israel’s security institutions, potentially impacting both domestic stability and international relations.