JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (VINnews)-Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar has responded to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that he will be fired, stating that the decision is not related to the agency’s failures on October 7 but rather stems from a personal issue.

Bar emphasized in a statement that he would continue in his role until the hostages are returned, several “sensitive” investigations are completed, and two potential successors are ready to take over. The investigations are likely related to the Prime Minister’s Office.

“As someone who headed the Shin Bet on October 7, I took responsibility for the agency’s failures and clearly stated that I intended to exercise it before the end of my tenure. That is what is expected of everyone,” Bar said.

He further clarified that Netanyahu’s decision to dismiss him was not due to October 7, citing the Prime Minister’s claim of ongoing distrust between them.

“The Shin Bet, which I head, carried out a thorough investigation that pointed to intelligence and internal process failures on October 7, the repair of which has already begun,” Bar said. “At the same time, the investigation pointed to a policy led by the government, and the person who has headed it, for years, with emphasis on the year preceding the massacre.”

Bar suggested that the investigation revealed a “long and deliberate disregard” by the political echelon of the agency’s warnings.

He also stressed the need for an investigation into all parties involved, including government policy and the prime minister. “If I do not insist on this, with all the personal prices I will pay, I will fail in my role of providing state security,” he said. “The public has a right to know what led to the massacre and collapse of Israel’s security.”

Bar explained that his decision to stay in his position was based on his commitment to the public, security, and the ongoing tensions in the region. “The duty of trust placed on the Shin Bet is first and foremost for Israeli citizens,” he said.

He also stated that he would continue in his role until key issues are resolved, including the return of hostages and the completion of sensitive investigations. “I informed the prime minister that I intended to complete these tasks before I resign, in coordination with him,” Bar added.

In closing, Bar argued that Netanyahu’s expectation of personal trust, which contradicts the public interest, is “entirely unacceptable” and contrary to both the Shin Bet law and the values of the agency.

As reported by VINnews