Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shelved plans to appoint former Israeli Navy commander Vice Admiral Eli Sharvit as the next head of the Shin Bet security agency, following internal coalition opposition and international criticism, including a rare rebuke from U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham.
The decision comes after Sharvit’s past remarks critical of former U.S. President Donald Trump resurfaced, prompting concern from both Israel’s political right and key American allies at a time when U.S.-Israel coordination remains essential in the ongoing multi-front war against Iran-backed terror groups.
Coalition Backlash and Political Fallout
Sharvit, who served as commander of the Israeli Navy until 2021, was considered by Netanyahu for the critical internal security post amid a broader reshuffle of Israel’s defense leadership. But reports of past comments Sharvit allegedly made disparaging Trump—during his presidency—sparked immediate backlash among members of Netanyahu’s ruling coalition.
Hardline members of the Likud party and allies within the Religious Zionist bloc objected to the nomination, warning that such an appointment could strain ties with Washington and the current Trump administration.
“At a time when President Trump is Israel’s most important strategic partner, we cannot afford diplomatic friction over unnecessary appointments,” said one senior Likud MK.
A Strategic Decision in Wartime
The role of Shin Bet chief is especially critical amid ongoing domestic security challenges, including terrorism inside Judea and Samaria, threats from Iran’s proxies, and the continued hostage crisis in Gaza. Netanyahu’s decision to back off the nomination is being framed as a pragmatic move to preserve unity within the coalition and ensure strong bilateral ties with the United States.
No new candidate has yet been officially named, though sources suggest the Prime Minister is now reviewing several internal Shin Bet veterans and military intelligence figures seen as more politically neutral.
“This is wartime leadership,” said one Israeli official close to the Prime Minister. “The focus must remain on defeating Hamas, dismantling Hezbollah, and securing our alliances—not stirring political distractions.”
