Israeli National Security Minister and Police Chief Reconcile Amid Budget Dispute

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Police Commissioner Danny Levi met and embraced at the Western Wall in Jerusalem on Monday, following weeks of strained relations over police appointments and budget freezes. The reconciliation coincided with Ben-Gvir releasing 50 million shekels of previously frozen funds to the police, which he had halted due to alleged "wasteful spending."

The dispute between Ben-Gvir and Levi escalated earlier in the month when the minister froze all police appointments, stating he would not approve them before elections. This action was reportedly linked to Levi's intention to appoint Superintendent Tamar Liberty as deputy legal advisor for the police, a move Ben-Gvir's office claimed was influenced by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. Levi, however, proceeded with another round of senior officer assignments, which still await the minister's signature.

The budget conflict saw hundreds of millions of shekels frozen, with both sides accusing each other of mismanaging public funds. A key point of contention was the proposed replacement of vehicles for senior police officials. The police warned that the budget freeze was hindering critical operational and infrastructural needs, including funds for the elite counter-terrorism unit Yamam, the Gideonim (Unit 33), and the Judean Border Police complex.

The meeting at the Western Wall occurred during the traditional Priestly Blessing ceremony, which attracted tens of thousands of worshippers. Police reported a large deployment of officers and border guards to ensure public order and safety during the event. The embrace between Ben-Gvir and Levi suggests a potential de-escalation of their public conflict.