Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reversed his decision to appoint former navy commander Vice Admiral Eli Sharvit as head of the country’s internal security agency following backlash, including criticism from a key U.S. senator.
Netanyahu had announced Sharvit’s appointment on Monday in response to a Supreme Court ruling that temporarily blocked his attempt to remove incumbent director Ronen Bar. However, by Tuesday, Netanyahu’s office issued a statement saying he had reconsidered and would now “examine other candidates,” while thanking Sharvit for his willingness to serve.
The reversal came after reports surfaced that Sharvit had participated in 2023 protests against Netanyahu’s judicial reforms. Israeli media also noted his past support for a 2022 water deal with Lebanon—an agreement Netanyahu had strongly opposed.
Adding to the pressure, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, criticised Sharvit’s appointment. Graham pointed to Sharvit’s past criticism of Trump’s climate policies, calling his selection “problematic” and urging Israel to reconsider.
Netanyahu’s initial move to fire Bar on March 21, citing an ongoing lack of trust, sparked daily mass protests in Jerusalem, adding to the turmoil. The Supreme Court intervened, suspending Bar’s dismissal until April 8.
With Netanyahu now searching for a new candidate for the position, the controversy shows the growing tensions within Israel’s government and its relationship with international allies.
