Israeli Political Leaders Propose Solutions to Rising Crime Wave
In response to a sharp increase in crime, particularly murders, and criticism of the National Security Ministry and police, prominent Israeli political figures offered their solutions at a recent "Decisive Hour: Democracy and Society" conference hosted by Ynet and Yediot Ahronot in collaboration with the Israel Democracy Institute. The central question posed to party leaders was what changes are needed to restore the police force.
Gadi Eisenkot of Yisrael Beiteinu called for the appointment of a competent and professional minister, a significant budget increase for the police, and the rehiring of thousands of officers who have left the force in recent years. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan addressing crime, education, leadership, and public spaces, prioritizing these issues.
Naftali Bennett of the HaBayit HaYehudi party advocated for the re-establishment of the crime cabinet he formed as prime minister, claiming that under the current government, murders have doubled. He criticized the dismantling of previous teams and stated that "Israel is abandoned," with businesses under protection rackets. Bennett also called for the removal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, but ultimately blamed Prime Minister Netanyahu for his appointment.
Avigdor Lieberman of Yisrael Beiteinu stressed the need to understand crime statistics and proposed establishing a national security headquarters, as the current ministry is overwhelmed. He suggested a comprehensive system involving the Shin Bet, Tax Authority, and Ministry of Justice. Lieberman also nominated Druze MK Hamad Amar as a potential successor to Ben-Gvir.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of the Religious Zionism party proposed "draconian legislation" to combat the estimated one million illegal weapons in the Arab community, suggesting it be classified as terrorism and involve the Shin Bet. He called for mandatory prison sentences for possessing illegal weapons and harsher penalties for arms trafficking, believing this would create deterrence. Smotrich also linked economic growth and combating black market capital to crime reduction.
Yair Golan of the Democratic Union proposed a government task force with a budget of at least one billion shekels, comprising representatives from relevant ministries and other bodies, to implement a multi-dimensional action plan. He expressed confidence in the police's ability to be reformed, noting the presence of dedicated officers and quality leadership.
Yaakov Asher of United Torah Judaism called for greater support for police officers and suggested that the Arab community and its leaders bear responsibility for the crime wave, citing a lack of condemnation for certain incidents. He also advocated for keeping the police less politicized.
