Netanyahu has withdrawn his nomination next head of the Shin Bet

In a dramatic reversal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has withdrawn his nomination of Vice Adm. (res.) Eli Sharvit as the next head of the Shin Bet, just 24 hours after announcing his selection. The move follows intense criticism from political allies and opposition figures, highlighting deep divisions within the Israeli government.

The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed Tuesday that Netanyahu had personally informed Sharvit of the decision, citing “further thought” on the matter. Instead, Netanyahu will now interview other candidates for the top security post.

Sharvit’s nomination had sparked controversy due to his past participation in 2023 protests against judicial reforms and his support for a 2022 maritime agreement with Lebanon—both points of contention for Netanyahu’s government. Additionally, U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham criticized Sharvit for past remarks opposing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s climate policies, calling the appointment “beyond problematic.”

Netanyahu had initially chosen Sharvit to replace outgoing Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, whom he dismissed over alleged failures leading up to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. However, critics argue that Bar’s removal is politically motivated, as the Shin Bet is currently investigating Netanyahu’s aides over alleged ties to Qatar.

Opposition figures were quick to denounce Netanyahu’s sudden U-turn. National Unity leader Benny Gantz accused the prime minister of prioritizing political pressure over national security, while Opposition Leader Yair Lapid slammed the indecisiveness, calling it a “violation of national security.”

Despite the backlash, Netanyahu’s allies defended his decision, with Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman stating that a leader’s ability to reconsider decisions based on public reaction is a cornerstone of democracy.

The Prime Minister’s Office has yet to announce a new nominee for the role, leaving a key national security position in limbo as Israel continues its military operations in Gaza.