Netanyahu names former navy commander as new Shin Bet chief
(JNS) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Vice-Admiral (ret.) Eli Sharvit, the former head of the Israeli Navy, as the next director of the Israel Security Agency, commonly known as the Shin Bet or Shabak.
The decision, announced on Monday morning, follows a comprehensive review of multiple candidates in the aftermath of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas, which highlighted serious lapses in Israel’s intelligence and preparedness.
Sharvit brings over three decades of military experience to the role, having served in the Israel Defense Forces for 36 years. As commander of the Navy from 2016 to 2021, he played a pivotal role in enhancing maritime security, particularly around Israel’s offshore energy infrastructure. His leadership also extended to various covert operations against Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran.
Israel orders mass evacuation of Rafah as offensive intensifies
(JNS) — The Israeli military has issued large-scale evacuation orders across most of Rafah in southern Gaza, signaling a major intensification in its military campaign following the breakdown of a recent ceasefire and the renewal of operations targeting Hamas.
In a message posted on social media Monday morning, Israel Defense Forces Arabic spokesperson Col. Avichay Adraee issued a warning to residents of Rafah, specifically naming neighborhoods such as Al-Nasr, Al-Shawka, Salam, Al-Manara and Qizan Al-Najjar, along with the surrounding eastern and western areas.
The Israeli military is “resuming strong military operations to dismantle the capabilities of terrorist groups” in these areas, he announced. Adraee urged civilians to evacuate immediately “for your safety,” directing them to seek shelter in designated zones within Al-Mawasi.
Meanwhile, a recent report from the Saudi-owned, London-based pan-Arab newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat has highlighted mounting dissatisfaction among Gazans toward Hamas.
Knesset votes to revoke social benefits for terrorist convicts
(JNS) — Israeli lawmakers passed a law on Monday that will permanently disqualify those convicted of grave terrorist offenses, as well as their family members, from receiving National Insurance Institute benefits.
The amendment to the National Insurance Law passed with the support of 38 Knesset members, while one lawmaker voted against.
Under the legislation, National Insurance benefits will be denied or revoked for individuals convicted of murder or attempted murder with terrorist intent, a “serious terrorist offense,” a treason offense or serious espionage, who have been sentenced to at least 10 years’ imprisonment.
In addition, income support allowances, which are paid under a separate law, will be permanently revoked from individuals who have been convicted in court of murder or attempted murder with terrorist intent.
Gazans chant ‘Hamas out!’ at funeral of protester
(JNS) — Hamas may have executed Palestinians who participated in rare protests against the group’s governance in the Gaza Strip.
One of the individuals allegedly killed was 22-year-old Oday Nasser Al Rabay. According to his family, he was detained, subjected to physical abuse, and later died in custody. His remains were returned to his relatives over the weekend.
Footage from Al Rabay’s funeral appears to show attendees chanting slogans critical of Hamas, including calls for the group’s removal from power. These demonstrations — some of which occurred in Beit Lahia and the Shejaiya neighborhood of Gaza City — reflect rising discontent amid the ongoing war and worsening humanitarian conditions in the Strip.
International human rights organizations have raised concerns about Hamas’s response to dissent, citing reports of arbitrary detentions, intimidation and use of torture against political opponents.
