Elie Charvit / Photo: Wikipedia
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the appointment of former Navy Commander Eli Sharvit as head of the General Security Service (Shabak). The decision, which was made after a rigorous selection process among seven candidates, has provoked a mixed reaction in the country’s political circles. While some welcomed the choice, emphasising Sharvit’s professionalism, others expressed doubts about his competence and pointed to possible legal and political consequences, Cursorinfo reported.
Experience and achievements of Elie Charvit
Eli Sharvit served 36 years in the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), including five years as the country’s Navy chief. During this time, he played a key role in establishing a system to protect Israel’s economic waters. In addition, Sharvit led a number of operations against groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah, and countered Iranian influence in the region. His supporters consider this experience to be proof of Sharvit’s ability to cope with national security challenges.
The prime minister’s office noted that Sharvit’s selection was based on his outstanding merits and leadership qualities. However, not everyone shares this assessment.
Reaction of political leaders
Sharvit’s appointment sparked a lively debate among Israeli politicians, dividing them into two camps. Opposition leader Benny Gantz praised the professionalism and integrity of the new Shabak chairman, but criticised the appointment process. According to him, the decision was made bypassing the judicial system, which could lead to a constitutional crisis. Gantz insists that such personnel changes should be approved only after the verdict of the High Court of Justice (BAGAC).
By contrast, Yesh Atid MP and former deputy head of the Mossad, Ram Ben-Barak, said he did not see any political motivation behind the appointment. He expressed his belief that Sharvit’s selection was based solely on his professional qualities.
Gadi Eizenkot, a Knesset member and former Chief of Staff of the IDF, also spoke positively about the new head of Shabak. He congratulated Sharvit, calling him an outstanding leader capable of taking the organisation to a new level. “Eli Sharvit has proven his commitment to the interests of the state, and I am confident of his success,” Eizenkot said.
On the other hand, the leader of the Our Home Israel (NDI) party, Avigdor Lieberman, sharply criticised the appointment. In his opinion, Sharvit does not have the necessary intelligence experience and specialised training to lead the Shabak. “The motives for this appointment remain unclear, and questions about it are only increasing,” Liberman said, pointing to potential risks to the country’s security.
Political context and possible consequences
Sharvit’s appointment comes amid a challenging political situation in Israel. The country is going through a period of intense internal debate, exacerbated by judicial reform and external threats. Critics of Netanyahu’s decision fear that the hasty approval of the Shabak head without judicial approval could lead to legal disputes and further escalation of the crisis.
Proponents of the appointment insist that Sharvit’s military experience will help strengthen Shabak in the face of growing challenges. However, final conclusions on whether he will live up to expectations can only be drawn over time.
So far, Israeli politics remains split, and the appointment of Eli Sharvit continues to be highly controversial. His first steps in his new position will likely determine whether he will be able to unite opinions and prove his worth as the head of one of the country’s key security structures.
