Dr. Saad Nimr: Israeli law does not permit the arbitrary dismissal of a security chief, which reflects Bar's refusal to dismiss him.

Akram Atallah: The legal advisor's opinion is advisory and does not have the legal force to prevent the dismissal due to suspicion of personal interests.

Nizar Nazzal: Bar's dismissal does not serve Israel's security interests, but rather aims to eliminate figures who could pose a threat to Netanyahu's political future.

Dr. Saeed Shaheen: Netanyahu and his clique are seeking to dismantle what is known as the "deep state" in Israel and establish new rules for its management.

Antoine Shalhat: Bar's dismissal is an attempt by Netanyahu to evade responsibility for October 7, "the greatest strategic failure in Israel's history."

Fayez Abbas: The confrontation between Netanyahu and Bar could lead to an escalation of popular protests in Israel, possibly more violent than before.

Amid escalating political and security crises within Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar stands out as one of the most significant issues, believed to be part of Netanyahu's attempts to eliminate figures who pose a threat to his political future.

In separate interviews with Al-Quds, political writers, analysts, experts, and university professors believe the decision comes after Bar-Bar opened investigations into Netanyahu's office, including corruption cases. They point out that this move reflects a broader struggle between the political leadership and the security establishment, as Netanyahu seeks to consolidate his control over the state apparatus and oust anyone who opposes him.

They point out that the decision may face strong legal and political opposition, especially since the Israeli Attorney General rejected the dismissal without a formal investigation, stressing the need for clear legal justification.

They believe the dismissal is an attempt to avoid accountability for security and political failures, especially in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attack. Barr's refusal to resign further complicates the situation, as he has declared full responsibility for the events but refused to submit to the arbitrary dismissal order.

They expect Bar's dismissal to escalate popular protests and lead to legal and political confrontations within Israel, especially since the move is seen as part of a broader shift toward a more authoritarian regime and the strengthening of the prime minister's power.

The political side must bear its responsibilities.

Dr. Saad Nimr, a political science professor at Birzeit University, says that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking to remove the head of the General Security Service (Shin Bet), Ronen Bar, due to what he claims is a loss of trust in him. This is especially true after Bar opened investigations into Netanyahu's office, the most recent of which concerned suspicions that some members of his office received bribes from Qatar.

Nimr explains that Barr did not stop at this investigation, but insisted on opening other files related to the responsibility of the political leadership, headed by Netanyahu, for the failure to deal with the October 7, 2023 attack.

Nimr points out that Barr clearly stated that "the political side must bear its responsibility for what happened that day," emphasizing that as a security apparatus it bears its responsibility, but the political leadership, especially the prime minister, must also bear its responsibility.

Nimr believes that Netanyahu seeks to surround himself only with loyalists, a fact evident in his previous attempts to dismiss officials who opposed his policies. However, Barr refused to comply with the dismissal order, which led to an escalation in the crisis between the two sides.

Arbitrarily dismissing a security chief is not permitted.

Nimr points out that Israeli law does not permit the arbitrary dismissal of a security chief, as such decisions must be subject to a legal investigation by the competent judicial authorities, reflecting Bar's refusal to dismiss him.

Nimer points out that the Israeli government's attorney general refused to dismiss Bar without conducting a formal investigation to determine the reasons for his dismissal, stressing the need for an independent investigative committee to examine the motives behind the decision.

Nimer believes this crisis could lead to a major legal and political escalation within Israel, as the courts may review the legality of the dismissal. If it is proven illegal, Barr could remain in his position or be formally removed if investigations reveal legal grounds for his dismissal.

Nimr explains that this battle reflects a broader conflict within the Israeli establishment between the political leadership and the security establishment, amid Netanyahu's ongoing attempts to consolidate his grip on various state agencies.

Qatari money may be behind Barr's dismissal

For his part, writer and political analyst Akram Atallah explains that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar involves Netanyahu justifying the decision by citing a loss of confidence in Bar. However, the real reasons appear more complex. Reports indicate that Shin Bet investigations into whether some employees in the Prime Minister's Office received funds from Qatar, with Netanyahu's approval, may be the real motive behind the decision. There is also suspicion that Netanyahu himself may be involved in this case, which increases the sensitivity of the situation.

Atallah points out that, in the legal context, the Israeli government's legal advisor confirmed that this decision entails a conflict of interest, making it difficult to defend in court.

According to Atallah, although the legal advisor's opinion is advisory and does not have the legal force to prevent the dismissal, she cannot defend this decision in court due to suspicions of personal interests and a conflict of interest.

Possibility of dismissal via government decision

Atallah points out that, despite this, Netanyahu has the legal ability to implement the dismissal via a government decision, as the head of the Shin Bet is appointed by the government, and thus he can be removed by the same mechanism.

However, Atallah believes that the real battle may begin after the decision is implemented, as the case is expected to be brought to court, which could radically change the course of events.

Atallah notes that the Israeli government's meeting on Wednesday to discuss the dismissal could be a turning point in this conflict, especially given the escalating political and security tensions within Israel.

Atallah believes the decision reflects Netanyahu's ongoing attempts to consolidate his control over the security establishment and eliminate anyone who poses a threat to his authority or might hinder his political endeavors.

Atallah says that the struggle over Bar's dismissal will not simply be an administrative matter, but rather part of a larger battle between Netanyahu and the security and judicial establishments, which could have significant political repercussions in the coming period.

"Cleansing" the government of secular and liberal figures

Nizar Nazzal, a researcher specializing in Israeli affairs and conflict issues, says that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to dismiss Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, and Bar's rejection of the decision, are part of Netanyahu's efforts to "purge" his government of secular and liberal figures and replace them with figures who are completely loyal to him.

Nazzal points out that Israel is no longer a democracy, but is gradually transforming into a dictatorial regime, with Netanyahu making decisions that reflect the approach of authoritarian leaders, not an elected prime minister in a country that claims to be "democratic."

Nazzal points out that this trend is not new, but rather began long ago. Netanyahu dismissed a number of military and security leaders who disagreed with him, starting with former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the pressure exerted on Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, and culminating in his current efforts to dismiss Ronen Bar.

Nazzal explains that the main problem between Netanyahu and Bar is the latter's support for a prisoner exchange deal, which conflicts with the government's far-right orientation.

Nazzal points out that the dismissal decision enjoys support from Netanyahu's allies in the government, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Through this move, Netanyahu seeks to woo Ben-Gvir and ensure his return to the government, amid fears of rifts within the ruling coalition.

The dismissal is a "gift" for Smotrich.

Nazzal explains that this dismissal is a "gift" to Smotrich, strengthening the alliance between Netanyahu and the leaders of the extreme right.

Nazzal emphasizes that this dismissal does not serve Israel's security interests, but rather Netanyahu's personal interests. He believes the primary goal of the decision is to remove everyone who played a role in running the state during the October 7, 2023, attack, in an attempt by Netanyahu to evade any responsibility for the security failure that occurred at the time.

Nazzal points out that Netanyahu is promoting the idea that the dismissal stems from a loss of confidence in Bar, but the reality is that the real reason is to eliminate figures who could pose a threat to his political future.

Nazzal asserts that Israeli Attorney General Gali Baharav opposes the dismissal and is demanding clear legal justifications for it, a move that could escalate the confrontation between Netanyahu and the judiciary.

Nazzal believes the repercussions of this dismissal will be significant and could lead to a powerful upheaval within Israeli society, particularly as it reflects the rise of right-wing and extremist rhetoric and Israel's transformation into a more authoritarian regime.

Nazzal explains that this move will strengthen Netanyahu's grip on power and give him greater freedom to make decisions without opposition from within the security and military establishments.

Nazzal points out that the appointment of Yisrael Katz as Minister of Defense and the selection of Eyal Zamir as Chief of Staff have made the Israeli military completely subservient to Netanyahu, and now Netanyahu is seeking to achieve the same with the Shin Bet security service by appointing a figure loyal to him.

Control over military, security and judicial institutions

Nazzal believes that if Netanyahu succeeds in dismissing Bar, the next step is likely to be the dismissal of the attorney general, which would give him complete control over Israel's military, security, and judicial institutions.

Nazzal explains that these moves mean that the levers of state power will fall into the hands of the extreme right, with the influence of secular, liberal, and nationalist movements declining, heralding a radical shift in the nature of governance within Israel.

Nazzal believes that Israel is going through a critical phase, as it has never before witnessed decisions like those currently being made by Netanyahu, which could impact the stability of its security, military, and judicial institutions.

Nazzal explains that these steps could lead to escalating anger within the Israeli public, particularly among the opposition and political elites, who believe Netanyahu is exploiting the state of war to consolidate his power and marginalize all those who oppose him.

Nazzal believes that Bar's dismissal could have significant repercussions for Israel's future, leading to widespread protests and possibly an unprecedented political crisis, especially given growing fears that the Israeli regime could shift to an extreme right-wing government, far removed from any democratic norms.

Netanyahu acts with the mentality of an "absolute leader."

For his part, Dr. Saeed Shaheen, a professor of political media at Hebron University, says that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu behaves with the mentality of an "absolute leader," similar to totalitarian regimes, placing his personal interests and those of his ruling coalition above all other considerations, supported by fascist groups within his government.

Shaheen asserts that the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar comes within this context, as Netanyahu attempts to oust anyone who disagrees with him or threatens his political future.

Shaheen believes that Netanyahu and his extremist clique are seeking to dismantle Israel's so-called "deep state" and establish new rules for governing the country politically, judicially, and security-wise, ensuring his continued rule of law for as long as possible.

Shaheen explains that this effort is not limited to the political dimension, but extends to an attempt to evade legal prosecution, especially in light of the accusations against him and the growing criticism regarding his responsibility for the failures of October 7, 2023.

Placing security institutions under direct political control

Shaheen points out that this move will create a sharp division within Israeli society that may be difficult to bridge. The secular movement in Israel views Bar's dismissal as part of an effort to undermine the foundations of democracy and transform the state into a regime loyal to the prime minister, rather than to institutions and laws.

Shaheen asserts that this move could jeopardize Israeli security in the medium term, as it places security institutions under direct political control, rather than maintaining them as independent entities charged with protecting the state.

Shaheen explains that the most significant challenge facing Netanyahu in this context is the ability of the Israeli government's attorney general, who opposes the dismissal, to withstand the enormous pressure exerted by extreme right-wing groups within and outside the government to pass the dismissal decision without subjecting it to judicial review.

Shaheen asserts that Netanyahu is exploiting the current state of war, which he calls a "seven-front war," as a pretext to evade the political and legal challenges he faces, relying on fueling security concerns to strengthen his grip on power.

Shaheen believes that the continuation of this approach could lead to unprecedented internal escalation, and possibly widespread protests against Netanyahu's policies, given the growing criticism of his management style.

The greatest strategic failure in Israel's history

Antoine Shalhat, a writer and political analyst specializing in Israeli affairs, believes that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to dismiss the head of the General Security Service (Shin Bet), Ronen Bar, represents an attempt to evade responsibility for the October 7, 2023, failure, which Israeli circles described as "the greatest strategic failure in Israel's history."

Shalhat explains that Netanyahu, through this move, seeks to place the responsibility for this failure on the security establishment, particularly the army command and the Shin Bet, at a time of mounting tensions between the government and the security establishment over the objectives of the war in the Gaza Strip.

Shalhat points out that there are fundamental differences between the two sides, with Netanyahu waging war as an "end in itself," while the security establishment views it as a means to achieve goals related to the so-called "day after war."

Shalhat explains that the Israeli Prime Minister refuses to define a clear purpose for the war and insists on its continuation to maintain his hold on power and the cohesion of his government coalition.

Shalhat points out that the repercussions of the decision to dismiss the Shin Bet chief will be significant domestically in Israel, with local media describing it as a "political earthquake."

Shalhat explains that many Israeli analysts view the security establishment as the "last bulwark" against the "nihilistic and absurdist tendencies" of the Netanyahu government, which insists on continuing the war despite the impossibility of achieving its declared goals.

Shalhat asserts that there is growing recognition within Israel that the two main objectives of the war—recovering Israeli prisoners held by Palestinian factions and dismantling Hamas's rule in Gaza—have not been achieved and remain far from being achieved.

Bar's dismissal opens a new front inside Israel

Shalhat believes the conflict between the political and security establishments will continue and possibly intensify if Netanyahu succeeds in implementing his decision to dismiss the head of the Shin Bet, especially given the government's legal advisor's opposition to the move.

Shalhat points out that this decision could open a new front within Israel, where the courts may intervene to prevent the dismissal. Netanyahu appears poised to face the courts, exploiting the cohesion of his governing coalition and US support for his policies related to the war on Gaza and the prisoner exchange deal.

Shalhat points out that Netanyahu feels a surplus of power that allows him to continue his project to dominate state institutions, a project he began before the war through his plan to weaken the judiciary.

According to Shalhat, the recent period has witnessed an escalation in attacks on the Supreme Court, the Shin Bet, and the army command, with a number of generals resigning and being replaced by others loyal to the government.

Shalhat believes that Israel may be on the cusp of a new phase of popular protests against Netanyahu's policies, similar to the demonstrations that erupted previously against his attempts to weaken the judiciary. He noted that the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of this internal crisis.

Returning detainees and forming an official investigation committee

In turn, Fayez Abbas, a writer specializing in Israeli affairs, explains that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has so far succeeded in getting rid of most of the security leaders responsible for the major failure of the October 7, 2023 attack. Only the head of the General Security Service (Shin Bet), Ronen Bar, remains. Bar has declared full responsibility for the events, but he has refused to resign despite Netanyahu's repeated attempts to force him to do so.

Abbas explained that Bar set two main conditions before leaving office: the return of the Israeli detainees from the Gaza Strip and the formation of an official commission of inquiry into what is known within Israel as the "October 7 massacre," something Netanyahu strongly opposes.

Abbas notes that Netanyahu fears that this committee will reveal sensitive details about his dealings with Hamas and its leaders, whom he and his government considered a "strategic treasure" whose presence prevented the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Abbas points out that Bar's refusal to resign and his refusal to be dismissed by government decision comes at a particularly sensitive time, as the Shin Bet security service is conducting investigations into what the media has dubbed "Qatargate," a case involving the ties of individuals close to Netanyahu's office to the Qatari government and their receipt of funds from it.

The investigation may include Netanyahu personally in the "Qatar Gate" case.

Abbas explains that the investigation could extend to Netanyahu personally, so dismissing Bar and replacing him with a Netanyahu loyalist could mean closing this case or at least halting the investigation into it.

Abbas asserts that Bar was clear in his response to Netanyahu, emphasizing that his mission as head of the Shin Bet is to "serve citizens, not obey the prime minister," in accordance with the agency's law.

Abbas points out that this confrontation between Netanyahu and the head of the Shin Bet could lead to an escalation of popular protests in Israel, perhaps more violent than before, because ousting Bar would mean Netanyahu taking full control of the Shin Bet, just as he did with the army when he appointed Major General Eyal Zamir as Chief of Staff.

Abbas explained that the battle between the two sides could reach the Israeli Supreme Court, which could demand a halt to the dismissal decision. However, it appears that the Netanyahu government is proceeding with its plan to take complete control of the Shin Bet, which threatens an unprecedented internal crisis in Israel.