A special session of the State Control Committee in the Knesset today, Wednesday, examined how police and the State Attorney’s Office handle online speech and incitement offenses, an issue that has become especially sensitive since the outbreak of the Gaza war. The hearing highlighted a deep tension between fighting online hate and crime and protecting freedom of expression, while also airing concerns about weak enforcement, lost public trust, and claims of political targeting.
Committee chair MK Alon Schuster said data presented to the panel showed that 87% of people harmed by online offenses do not file complaints with police, and that many opened cases are later closed because suspects cannot be identified. He said the goal must be “effective, determined, professional and equal” enforcement, while preserving Israel’s democratic balance.
MK Naama Lazimi accused the system of selective enforcement, saying incitement laws are being used “as a tool for political persecution of government opponents,” and that activists and citizens are being summoned for legitimate criticism. Police and prosecution representatives rejected that charge. Senior Inspector Yifit Gabay of the Intelligence Division said, “We do not engage in political enforcement,” adding that every step goes through a structured process requiring approval from investigators and prosecutors. Attorney Shlomi Abramson of the State Attorney’s Office said not every offensive statement amounts to incitement, and that the law and case law impose strict tests before prosecution.
Several witnesses described personal harm. Hadas Klein, a key witness in Netanyahu-related cases, said she lives under protection because she told the truth and that police cannot identify online harassers, unlike civil groups. Student Adi Yisraeli said she was summoned for a security interview over critical posts about the government, leaving her fearful and self-censoring. In contrast, Shay Glik, CEO of B’Tsalmo, urged tougher enforcement, arguing that “words can kill” and that even police questioning can deter people who incite violence.
