Police Commissioner Weighs Legal Action Against National Security Minister Over Budget Impasse

Police Commissioner Danny Levi is reportedly considering legal steps against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to release approximately 333 million shekels in stalled police funding. Levi is scheduled to meet with the police's legal advisor on Wednesday to explore options for transferring the budget, which has been held up by Ben-Gvir's ministry amid an ongoing dispute between the two.

This budget conflict is the latest escalation in tensions between Levi and Ben-Gvir, adding to a separate clash over the appointment of senior police officers. Last week, the police selected 50 candidates for the rank of Assistant Commissioner, but Ben-Gvir has refused to sign off on their appointments until after the upcoming elections, preventing them from assuming their new roles.

Despite Ben-Gvir's opposition, the police are preparing for another round of appointments. In response, the legal advisor for the National Security Ministry, Ariel Sizel, has requested clarification from the police's legal advisor regarding the intention to expand the appointment process, implying a demand to halt the planned Thursday meeting on the matter.

Reports indicate that former police officials are contemplating a High Court petition against Ben-Gvir on behalf of officers whose promotions are being delayed. Meanwhile, Commissioner Levi has stated he will not meet with Minister Ben-Gvir until both the appointments and the budget are approved.

The dispute has also extended to the fight against crime, with Ben-Gvir claiming a reduction in incidents since the Shin Bet began assisting the police. A senior police official refuted this, accusing the minister of misattributing police achievements to the Shin Bet and misleading the public.