Police Commissioner Fears Ouster, Seeks President's Help with Opposition

Police Commissioner Danny Levi has expressed significant concern about his potential dismissal following elections, prompting an unusual request to President Isaac Herzog. Levi met with Herzog recently, conveying his fear that political elements might target him for removal due to his perceived alignment with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's policies.

During the meeting, Levi reportedly asked President Herzog to facilitate communication channels with prominent opposition figures, including Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, and Avigdor Lieberman. The Commissioner aimed to convey that he operates independently and is not merely an extension of Minister Ben-Gvir, seeking to ensure his tenure could continue under a different government.

Levi's objective was to present himself to potential future leaders as a professional and autonomous figure, thereby preempting political objections that might arise if these opposition leaders were to form the next government. This move is seen as an attempt to secure his position against potential ouster based on actions taken during the current government's term.

The Police Commissioner's request has raised ethical and public questions regarding the conduct of a serving commissioner during a sensitive political period. The attempt to secure a political 'insurance policy' through the presidency has led to scrutiny of the independence of the police's top command.

In response, the Israel Police stated, "We have no intention of being dragged into cheap gossip that contains nothing." The President's Residence issued a statement clarifying that the meeting was brief, occurred in the presence of others, and that the alleged statements by the Commissioner were not made, nor was the President asked or did he agree to convey any message to the political figures mentioned.