What To Know About the Search for the Next Shin Bet Director: Latest Updates

After one day, the appointment of Navy vice admiral Eli Sharvit (ret.) to become the next Shin Bet chief has been rescinded by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu  after mounting pressure, including from leading Republican US Senator Lindsey Graham. 

Sharvit served in the Israeli navy for 36 years, including as chief of staff from 2014-2016, and commander from 2016-2021. As commander, Sharvit led extensive developments in Israel’s maritime defense capabilities for Israel’s economic waters, and directed operational campaigns against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.  

The Prime Minister thanked Sharvit for his willingness to take on the role, but informed him that after further consideration, he will be looking for other candidates. 

Sharvit’s appointment came as a shock to Israel twice, because the pick was so unknown and had not been named by media outlets. All final hints from Netanyahu’s spokespeople that the for final candidates were: recent deputy Shin Bet chief “M”, Yair “Rolly” Sagi, an earlier deputy Shin Bet chief, Shalom Ben Hanan, a former Shin Bet high command official, and Eyal Tzir Cohen, a former Mossad high command official who had also served extensively in the Shin Bet.

Maj. Gen- Sami Turgeman (res.) is reported to be the new favorite to replace Ronen Bar, although the PMO has denied the reports. Turgeman served as commander of IDF ground forces from 2009-2013 and the head of the southern command from 2013-2015. 

Any new appointment of the next Shin Bet chief will not go into effect until April 8 and could be further delayed, due to a petition from the High Court of Justice. Regardless, the new chief will replace Ronen Bar, who was fired due to October 7 mishaps.