The Israeli government has unanimously approved a proposal from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to dismiss Shin Bet head Ronen Bar, Reuters quotes the prime minister’s office as saying.

“Ronen Bar will conclude his duties on April 10 or when a permanent ISA Director is appointed — whichever comes first,” it added.

On Sunday, Netanyahu told the head of the Shin Bet domestic intelligence service that he will ask the government to approve his dismissal this week.

Justifying his decision, Netanyahu said he had long ago lost confidence in Bar and that trust in the head of the domestic security service, whose roles include counter-terrorism and security for government officials, was especially crucial at a time of a military campaign.

Bar’s sacking would be likely to draw widespread criticism amid a new Israeli offensive in Gaza with dozens of Israeli hostages still held there.