Police Commissioner Escalates Dispute With National Security Minister Over Appointments

Police Commissioner Danny Levi is reportedly planning to proceed with further appointments within the Israel Police, escalating a conflict with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. This move comes after Ben-Gvir froze appointments, a decision that has stalled the promotion of 50 officers at the rank of Assistant Commissioner. Sources within the police indicate that Levi intends to hold discussions regarding assignments for additional officers in the coming days.

Last week, Levi and the police command appointed the 50 officers, but Ben-Gvir announced he would not sign off on these appointments until after the upcoming elections. Consequently, the selected officers cannot assume their new roles until the election period concludes. This impasse has led to significant tension at the top of the police force, with reports suggesting the commissioner will not meet with the minister until the appointments are approved and the budget is confirmed.

Commissioner Levi has previously stated that delaying budgets for the police constitutes a blow to national security. The ongoing dispute highlights a significant clash between the police leadership and the minister responsible for its oversight.