Israeli PM Netanyahu appoints former Navy commander Eli Sharvit to be next head of Shin Bet

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Vice Admiral (retired) Eli Sharvit, former head of the Israeli Navy, as the next director of the Israel Security Agency, Shin Bet.

The decision follows a comprehensive review of multiple candidates in the wake of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, which exposed critical lapses in Israel’s intelligence and preparedness.

As commander of the Navy from



2016 to 2021, Sharvit played a key role in strengthening the maritime security, particularly around Israel’s offshore energy infrastructure. His leadership also extended to various covert operations targeting Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.

Sharvit replaces the current Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, who has faced growing criticism over the agency’s failure to prevent the October assault.