Ex-Shin Bet Chief to Sue Netanyahu Over October 7th Blame

Former Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar announced Sunday he will instruct his lawyers to file a defamation lawsuit against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The move comes amid escalating public exchanges between the two regarding Netanyahu's alleged conduct before and during the October 7th Hamas attack.

Bar claims Netanyahu is conducting a "incitement campaign" against him, selectively releasing documents and presenting them out of context. Bar asserts he had warned Netanyahu of a "real danger" prior to October 7th, but that the Prime Minister ignored these warnings and recommendations. Through the lawsuit, Bar seeks to reveal evidence and documents related to information provided to Netanyahu before the attack, as well as his meeting schedule with security officials and foreign dignitaries. He also intends to subpoena Netanyahu's aides and staff if the suit proceeds.

Sources close to Bar echoed his sentiments, accusing Netanyahu of attempting to deflect responsibility for the failures preceding the attack. They believe a future inquiry commission should investigate the events leading up to October 7th.

Netanyahu had previously criticized Bar, claiming that on the night of the attack, Bar spoke with then-IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and then-Head of Military Intelligence Aharon Haliva but did not update or warn forces in the field. Netanyahu pointed to the deployment of a special unit, "Tequila," as proof that Bar was aware of a significant threat. Netanyahu also denied receiving a direct warning from Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel before October 7th and announced his own intention to file a defamation suit regarding that specific claim.

However, the article notes that Netanyahu likely benefits from immunity for statements made in his official capacity, making the success of Bar's lawsuit particularly challenging.