Business leaders warn Netanyahu against ‘destructive’ move to fire Shin Bet head

The Israel Business Forum, which represents most private-sector workers from 200 of the country’s largest companies, calls on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to backtrack from his intention to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, calling it a “destructive” move.

“Israel is in the midst of one of the most difficult periods in its history — from a security, economic and social perspective,” the business forum says in a statement. “The last thing Israel needs is an internal battle in which the prime minister, in a severe conflict of interest, fires gatekeepers, in violation of the law — especially at this difficult time.”

“Israel’s enemies are watching with pleasure as Israel returns to the same path that led the country to the October 7 attack,” the forum warns.

Instead, the forum urges Netanyahu to focus on “what is truly important now: the return of the 59 hostages who were kidnapped under his watch… establishing a state investigation committee, according to the president’s agreement, and rehabilitating deterrence, the economy and society.”