Explosive: Former Shin Bet Chief claims "Netanyahu Is a Crazed Prime Minister"

Jerusalem – Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen delivered a scathing critique of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of actions that "even dictators wouldn’t dare to take." In an interview he Thursday evening on Channel 11 (Kan 11).

Cohen revealed unprecedented details about his turbulent relationship with Netanyahu, his concerns over national security, and a threat he received while heading the Shin Bet.

When asked whether Netanyahu prioritizes his political survival over the country’s security, Cohen didn't hesitate. "Some of the things we've seen in recent years raise serious concerns about the way we perceive the Prime Minister and his decision-making in terms of national interests," he said.

Cohen pointed to the submarine and naval vessel scandal in which Israel allowed Germany to sell Strategic submarines to Egypt. An approval given to a German compant who's Israeli Attorney was realted to Netanyahu.

The affair resulted in warning letters to Netanyahu and other officials.

"Some of these warnings suggest that he acted against standard procedures, potentially endangering national security," Cohen stated.

"Could this happen again? Unfortunately, I believe it’s possible."

Netanyahu’s Role in Prisoner Releases and Qatar’s Influence

Cohen also claimed that Netanyahu personally approved the release of prisoners in the Gilad Shalit deal, including Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He discussed the current hostage negotiations, and new revelations about how Hamas’ October 7 attack unfolded.

Cohen expressed shock over recent reports that officials in Netanyahu’s office were also working for Qatar, a country accused of financially supporting Hamas.

Cohen warned of Netanyahu’s potential efforts to appoint a more "compliant" Shin Bet chief, one who would use the agency’s power for political purposes.

When asked if Netanyahu ever pressured him to cross ethical lines, Cohen responded carefully: "He requested things that he saw as legitimate, but I told him I couldn't do them—and I didn’t."

Regarding concerns over Netanyahu reshaping Israel’s institutions to consolidate power, Cohen drew a stark picture: "We've seen what happened with the IDF chief of staff—they made his life miserable. If Netanyahu could remove everyone standing in his way, the Attorney General, the State Prosecutor, the Supreme Court, they would all be gone by now."

Cohen’s revelations add to the growing debate over Netanyahu’s leadership, raising serious questions about the future of Israeli democracy and national security.