Call Me Back - with Dan Senor
The Politics of the Shin Bet: A History – with Amichai Cohen
Mar 27, 2025
Amichai Cohen, an expert on Israel's internal security agency and a professor of law, dives deep into the tumultuous relationship between Shin Bet and the Israeli government. He discusses the recent dismissal of Shin Bet's chief and its historical implications for national security. Listeners learn about the agency's essential role in counter-terrorism, the political tensions it faces, and the infamous Bus Line 300 affair. Cohen also sheds light on the 2002 Shin Bet Law, balancing security needs with democratic accountability.
49:05
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Quick takeaways
- The firing of Shin Bet Chief Ronan Bar has sparked mass protests, highlighting historical tensions between Israel's security agencies and government authority.
- The Shin Bet's unique focus on domestic security emphasizes its complex relationship with political leaders, often marked by conflicts over operational independence and accountability.
Deep dives
The Tension Between Shin Bet and Political Leadership
The Israeli law grants the prime minister authority over the Shin Bet, but the agency's head can refuse orders that are politically motivated. This inherent tension has historical roots, existing since the establishment of the state, and has intensified recently following the unanimous dismissal of Shin Bet Chief Ronan Bar. The firing has led to mass protests, with many observers suggesting that the conflict between security agencies and the government has reached a critical point. This ongoing struggle reflects not only tensions specific to the current administration but also a larger, longstanding rivalry that has characterized Israel’s political landscape.
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