National Security Minister Ben-Gvir Withholds Police Funds Amid Dispute

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir is reportedly delaying the transfer of 333 million shekels to the police force, according to Kan Radio. The funds, earmarked from the state treasury for the police budget, are currently held up within the National Security Ministry. Police sources claim Ben-Gvir is using the money as leverage in his ongoing disagreements with Police Commissioner Dાni Levy over appointments and other matters, asserting that this action weakens the police. Officials close to Ben-Gvir countered that the minister will not approve the transfer until he is assured the funds will be used for their intended purposes and not "showy celebrations" for the commissioner and his associates. These sources also alleged that previously transferred funds were used to upgrade the commissioner's and leadership's vehicles and headquarters, rather than benefiting frontline officers. The dispute occurs amidst existing tensions between Ben-Gvir and Levy concerning appointments within the police. Ben-Gvir had previously informed Levy that new police appointments would not be approved until after the upcoming elections, accusing the commissioner of delaying the appointment process for months.