Police Commissioner Proceeds With Appointments Despite Minister's Opposition

Police Commissioner Danny Levy intends to hold a discussion on officer assignments and continue the process of appointing station and district commanders on Thursday, despite opposition from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. This move is seen as a symbolic gesture by Levy, acknowledging officers within the police force, even though the appointments require the minister's approval to be finalized. Sources in the law enforcement system described the action as a "public relations move" with no practical effect, predicting a freeze on appointments for several months until a new government is formed. Ben-Gvir is currently withholding approval for new appointments, police retirements, and even budgets as part of his ongoing dispute with the commissioner. A statement from Ben-Gvir's office indicated that the minister will not approve appointments before the elections, except in exceptional, urgent cases, and therefore Levy's discussion, as an advisory figure, holds no value. The statement suggested that if Levy truly desired urgent appointments, he knew the correct procedure. Last week, Ben-Gvir claimed Levy is controlled by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, stating the dispute concerns appointments during an election period and Levy's subservience to the Attorney General, not budget delays. Sources in the commissioner's office countered that Ben-Gvir needs to sign off on promotions today due to disagreements, and that Ben-Gvir had previously canceled an appointment round.