Netanyahu in crisis: Likud pressure mounts to revoke Eli Sharvit’s Shin Bet appointment

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting pressure from within his own Likud party to withdraw the appointment of former Navy Commander Eli Sharvit as the new head of the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet). Sources close to the Prime Minister suggest that Netanyahu may be reconsidering the appointment, following vocal objections from several prominent figures within Likud who have expressed strong opposition to Sharvit’s selection.

Sharvit, who served as Navy Commander until 2021, has made his views on key political issues public since his retirement. Notably, he participated in the Kaplan protests in 2023, which were organized in opposition to the government’s judicial reforms. His involvement in these protests has sparked significant backlash from right-wing members of Netanyahu’s government, who argue that his political stance is incompatible with the role of Shin Bet head, especially under a right-wing government.

Knesset member Moshe Saada of Likud was among the most vocal critics, telling Arutz Sheva-Israel National News that Sharvit’s appointment would reinforce what he called a "flawed" worldview. Saada emphasized that the government should prioritize individuals who uphold "national and right-wing values" and not appoint someone associated with anti-government protests. He added that Sharvit’s support for a controversial gas deal with Hezbollah, in contrast to Netanyahu’s opposition, further solidified his unsuitability for the role.

Minister Amichai Eliyahu from the Religious Zionism party echoed similar concerns, arguing that replacing one individual with a similar political perspective only perpetuates the same issues within the government. He criticized the appointment as a continuation of a "Kaplanist worldview" that he believes is incompatible with the current government's agenda.

Additionally, Knesset member Tali Gottlieb questioned Netanyahu’s decision, asking, "Who is advising you, Mr. Prime Minister?" She expressed frustration over the selection of individuals who she believes are unable to think independently and are bound by "misconceptions."

Sharvit’s extensive military career, including leading operations against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, had initially made him a respected figure in Israel's defense community. However, his public stance on controversial matters and involvement in political protests has now made his suitability for the top Shin Bet role a contentious issue within the Likud party.

With pressure mounting, Netanyahu may be forced to reconsider the appointment or face further division within his party. The debate over Sharvit’s appointment underscores the deep political divisions in Israel, particularly over the government’s approach to security, defense, and judicial reform.