Israelis have been demonstrating against the action, which many see as part of an effort to reduce checks on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government.

Israel’s cabinet approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal to fire the country’s domestic intelligence chief, multiple news organizations reported early Friday, a decision that defied thousands of protesters who rallied against his removal and those of other security and judicial officials.

The head of Shin Bet, Israel's domestic intelligence agency, was sacked Friday, days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he no longer trusts him, and fallout from a report on the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.