Police Commissioner Warns National Security at Risk Over Budget Dispute with Minister

Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai has sent a sharp letter to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, warning that the immediate delay of hundreds of millions of shekels allocated for the police budget is harming the force's operational capabilities, citizen services, and national security. Shabtai stated that the continued withholding of these funds, which were legally designated for the police, is unacceptable.

The letter, a copy of which was also sent to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, details that while 117 million shekels have been transferred, Ben-Gvir is holding back 333 million shekels. The Commissioner cautioned that this delay will impede the acquisition of approximately 330 operational vehicles, essential for responding to incidents and calls, as well as for counter-terrorism and crime prevention efforts. Furthermore, the funding shortfall will affect the procurement of vital equipment for officers, including weapons, vests, and helmets, and will negatively impact newly established units like regional intelligence and the National Guard.

Sources close to Minister Ben-Gvir justified the budget freeze by citing concerns about potential waste and a dispute over the allocation of funds, insisting on ensuring the money reaches officers and operational needs. However, the police maintain there is no professional justification for the delay, accusing Ben-Gvir of holding the budget hostage to pressure the Commissioner regarding senior appointments.

Ben-Gvir, in his response, did not address the budget concerns directly but focused on the dispute over appointments. He accused Shabtai of being controlled by the Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, who he claims is pushing for the immediate appointment of her associate, Tamar Liberty, a former aide to the previous Police Commissioner. Ben-Gvir vowed to prevent the Attorney General from influencing police appointments, especially questionable ones made close to an election.

This budget freeze occurs amidst Ben-Gvir's decision to halt a round of senior police appointments. The dispute reportedly stems from Shabtai's intention to appoint Tamar Liberty as Deputy Legal Advisor for the police, a move Ben-Gvir opposes. Despite Ben-Gvir's objections, Shabtai proceeded with recommending a series of appointments, including Liberty's, but they require the minister's signature to take effect. Some officers who were not promoted have indicated they might petition the High Court.