**Israeli Prime Minister Fires Top Security Official**
Israel‘s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has fired the country’s top security chief. The official, Ronen Bar, was in charge of the Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic intelligence agency.
Netanyahu said he lost confidence in Bar because of a “continuing distrust” between them. He cited a lack of trust as the reason for firing Bar from his five-year contract.
**Protests and Criticism**
Bar called Netanyahu’s decision “politically motivated”. This move has sparked outrage among Israelis, who are already protesting against Israel’s new assault on Gaza. Thousands have joined forces with anti-government protesters in Jerusalem.
The Israeli cabinet met to approve the early dismissal of Bar. But before this meeting, Attorney-General Gali Baharav Miara said that Bar couldn’t be fired until she had assessed the legality of his removal.
**Background**
Israel launched a wave of intense attacks on what they said were Hamas’ targets in the Palestinian territories earlier this week. This came after a fragile truce ended between Israel and Hamas, which lasted for two months.
The Shin Bet plays a major role in the war against Hamas. Its activities and membership are closely guarded state secrets.
**Death Toll**
Approximately 1,200 people died during the recent attacks on Israel, with 251 held hostage. In response, Israel has launched an offensive that has killed over 48,500 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry.
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