Full text of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar’s resignation letter
Capping off 35 years of work in the security establishment, Bar acknowledges those who weren’t protected on Oct. 7, vows to conduct orderly handover to successor
The following is the text of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar’s resignation letter submitted to the prime minister on April 29, 2025. This Times of Israel translation retains the original document’s format and wording.
I am informing you of my decision to terminate my role as head of the General Security Service on June 15, 2025.
I do this with a bowed head to the murdered, the dead, the wounded, the hostages and their families, to whom we did not provide security on that day.
Along with the deep pain and the failure of the service in not giving warning of an attack of this magnitude, the men and women of the Shin Bet fought alongside the IDF in all arenas, eliminated terrorists, provided intelligence, led the hostage rescue operations, thwarted terrorist attacks and saved the lives of many civilians.
With the time left until the date of my role’s termination, I will carry out an orderly and professional handover with whoever is appointed as my replacement and ensure that this transfer is carried out in a professional and responsible manner.
I am signing off on a chapter of 35 years of security work for the country. I will continue to contribute and serve the country wherever I can. I consider this not only a duty but a great privilege.
Ronen Bar
The Times of Israel Community.