Netanyahu’s decision followed pressure from political allies and criticism from the right-wing hardliners over Sharvit’s participation in protests against the government. Some allies of the prime minister said the reason for the change was an article he wrote in ynet’s sister publication Calcalist, criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump’s climate policies.
“The statements made by Eli Sharvit about President Trump and his polices [sic] will create unnecessary stress at a critical time. My advice to my Israeli friends is change course and do better vetting,” Graham wrote.
Sharvit said he had agreed to accept the offer from the prime minister tocontinue serving the State of Israel. “This decision came with full confidence in the ability of Shin Bet to face the complex challenges it currently faces and with a humble belief in my ability to lead it in doing so. Serving the interests of the state, its security, and the safety of its citizens will always be my top priority.”
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Protesters march demonstrating against the government’s legislative efforts to weaken the judiciary
(Photo: Yuval Chen)
According to a source close to Netanyahu, the prime minister was aware that Sharvit had attended a protest but decided to appoint him anyway because he was not a regular participant and did not address the protesters. But others in his camp cited the article slamming Trump, which the sources said Netanyahu was unaware of.
