Police Commissioner Danny Levi Faces Crucial Test Amid Political Uncertainty

Police Commissioner Danny Levi is nearing the end of his second year in a three-year term, with a possibility for an extension. Typically, this is the time when commissioners seek favor with the minister to secure a fourth year or tread carefully. Levi has demonstrated particular skill in this area, yet his chances for an extended tenure appear slim.

It is widely assumed that if the government changes, the incoming administration will seek to reform the police force, which is crucial for democracy but has been criticized for perceived failures. Even if Itamar Ben-Gvir remains Minister of National Security, he is likely to desire a more compliant commissioner than Levi. Levi reportedly attempts to maintain a semblance of statehood and independence, navigating between differing viewpoints, while Ben-Gvir has expressed a desire to dismantle existing institutions. Evidence of this tension is seen in repeated attacks on the commissioner by individuals close to Ben-Gvir in popular WhatsApp groups for police and prison service officers.

Within both the police and the prison service, Ben-Gvir is seen as the de facto leader, using appointments and promotions to emphasize loyalty to him and the ministry above all else. This is evident in the "auditions" senior officers undergo with Ben-Gvir or his associates for career advancement, and in police officers serving as a backdrop for the minister's political efforts, particularly during his tours of Arab communities. The commissioner's silence on these matters is noted, especially given his own appointment by Ben-Gvir after only a year as a district commander with a record of perceived failure, marked primarily by loyalty to the minister's views.

As elections approach, the police face a critical role in ensuring the integrity and fairness of the electoral process, both on election day and in the aftermath of vote counting. There are concerns about a potential "Israeli version" of the US Capitol riot scenario. This upcoming dramatic election period will serve as a significant test for Levi and his command, potentially defining his entire tenure.