Israeli National Security Minister Clashes With Police Commissioner Over Appointments

A sharp dispute has intensified between Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Police Commissioner Danny Levi concerning a wave of senior appointments within the Israel Police. Ben-Gvir instructed that the appointments be halted until after the upcoming elections, asserting that the authority to make such decisions rests solely with him, not the commissioner or the Attorney General. This directive came after the commissioner met with the Attorney General regarding the matter.

The current conflict erupted when senior police command staff discussed the placement of approximately 12 officers at the rank of Assistant Commissioner, despite Ben-Gvir's order to pause the process, which he cited as being due to the election period. Ben-Gvir claims he had previously proposed a round of appointments four months ago, warning about the proximity to elections, but the commissioner only sought to proceed with them about six weeks before the vote.

Ben-Gvir further alleges that the commissioner's change of stance on proceeding with the appointments is linked to the potential appointment of Commander Tamar Liberty as Deputy Legal Advisor to the Police. He stated that the commissioner initially canceled the appointments following the Attorney General's office's request due to the elections, but later agreed to the appointment of Liberty, who previously served as Ronny Alsheich's chief of staff, after discussions with the Attorney General. Ben-Gvir accused the Attorney General of then pushing the process forward.

The minister reiterated that his order to halt appointments remains in effect, calling the notifications sent to officers about their promotions a violation of his directive. Ben-Gvir sharply criticized the commissioner, accusing him of creating a false impression that appointments are imminent and cynically exploiting police officers and their families. The commissioner reportedly sent Ben-Gvir a message asking him to approve the appointments and police budgets, which he claims the minister is delaying, stating, "Someone is making sure you don't calm down." Ben-Gvir reportedly responded, "You are making a cynical spin at the expense of the police."

Despite the escalating tensions and accusations, Ben-Gvir and Levi are scheduled to meet face-to-face on Wednesday for a holiday toast event. This meeting will occur amidst their ongoing battle over senior police appointments, with Ben-Gvir maintaining the freeze and the commissioner continuing to push for the promotions.