Coalition and opposition figures issued mixed responses Monday to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s naming of Vice Adm. (res.) Eli Sharvit as the next Shin Bet chief, with supporters lauding Sharvit’s character and critics slamming both his politics and the timing of the announcement.

After interviewing seven candidates for the position, Netanyahu chose Sharvit, who will replace the head of the organization, Ronen Bar, pending a ruling by the Supreme Court over his dismissal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed former Navy commander Vice Adm. (res.) Eli Sharvit as the new head of Shin Bet, replacing Ronen Bar, who was dismissed earlier this month. The decision comes amid ongoing political and security tensions in the country.