The head of Israel’s Shin Bet security agency has resigned amid Iran’s large-scale retaliatory military operation targeting the occupied Palestinian territories late on Saturday. His departure comes months after warning Israeli officials about what he described as deep infiltration by the Islamic Republic into the regime’s intelligence affairs.

Israeli media outlet Arutz Sheva reported the resignation early Sunday, citing growing tensions between the outgoing intelligence chief, Ronen Bar, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Bar had repeatedly blamed Netanyahu for Israel’s mounting security crises, including concerns over alleged Iranian influence within Israeli intelligence circles.

Bar’s resignation coincided with the latest wave of missile and drone strikes carried out by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in its most extensive operation yet—surpassing previous offensives under "True Promise I and II."

In March, Bar had cautioned Israeli leadership that the regime was entering a highly challenging period, warning that “Iran’s hand is deep inside Israel.” His concerns intensified as Iran’s Intelligence Ministry recently claimed to have obtained a vast trove of classified documents related to Israel’s nuclear and military infrastructure.

During his tenure, Bar reportedly resisted efforts by Netanyahu to dismiss him. Sources indicated that the intelligence chief had opposed orders to conduct surveillance on Netanyahu’s political rivals and Israeli settlers protesting the prolonged war on Gaza. As tensions escalated, Bar took legal action against Netanyahu, submitting an extensive report to Israeli judicial authorities.

His resignation marks a critical moment in Israel’s internal political and security landscape, as the regime faces growing instability and unprecedented external threats.

....................
End/ 257