Police Chief Defends Bnei Brak Response, Orders Lessons Learned

Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levy has defended officers who used force against ultra-Orthodox protesters at the entrance to Bnei Brak last week, despite sharp criticism over what witnesses described as unusually severe violence. In a police statement published Tuesday, Levy said he spoke with the regional commander and the station commander, heard their account of events, and accepted their view that the incident required a substantial police response.

According to the statement, the roadblock took place in the early morning, disrupted a major traffic artery, violated public order, and affected the daily routine of tens of thousands of civilians. The police said the commissioner concluded that “a significant police action was required to restore public order.” At the same time, Levy ordered a professional review and lessons learned, as is customary after such incidents.

The police also said Levy expressed his appreciation and support for the commanders and officers in the field, saying they work to protect the public and maintain order while making real-time decisions in a complex operational environment, and that he would continue to back them in carrying out their duties.

The response comes amid growing ultra-Orthodox anger over police handling of protests against the military draft decree. Footage from Bnei Brak showed officers tearing protesters’ pants and using heavy force, prompting a new push by United Torah Judaism faction chair MK Uri Maklev to create a parliamentary inquiry committee on police conduct during the demonstrations. Maklev argued that “all red lines were crossed” and described the actions as “hard, unrestrained and deliberate brutality” against civilians. He said the committee should examine the chain of command, the instructions given to officers, and the force policy used against demonstrators. He also accused the police of selective enforcement and said existing oversight bodies, led by the police internal affairs unit, are not sufficient. A recent investigation by Kikar HaShabbat alleged that police systematically violate procedures at ultra-Orthodox protests, including the use of stun grenades contrary to regulations.