Israeli AG Approves Police Probe of MK Yitzhak Kroizer in Assault Case

Attorney General Galit Baharav-Miara has authorized the police to investigate Member of Knesset Yitzhak Kroizer of the Otzma Yehudit party under caution. The investigation stems from suspicions of involvement in an assault on police officers during an incident approximately a week and a half ago near Mitzpe Yericho. Three officers were injured in the event, which began when they attempted to arrest a suspect involved in a violent assault. The suspect reportedly fled to an area where a memorial service was taking place, leading to a confrontation.

Kroizer himself filed a complaint with the Police Investigations Department (Mahash) against the officers. In response to the investigation approval, Kroizer accused the Attorney General of conducting a "political witch hunt" and "oppressive, uncircumcised, and unrestrained political persecution." He claimed police officers assaulted him, and instead of investigating his complaint, the Attorney General, whom he called "political" and acting "criminally," is attempting to turn the victim into a suspect. Kroizer asserted the decision was politically motivated, made just before elections, contrasting it with perceived delays in investigating left-wing Knesset members.

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir, Kroizer's party chairman, echoed these sentiments, expressing grave concern about selective enforcement and the political use of the law enforcement system. Ben-Gvir stated that Kroizer, who allegedly suffered a broken rib after being attacked while attending a memorial for a childhood friend, filed a complaint, but the system is attempting to make him the suspect. He questioned the speed of the investigation into Kroizer compared to other MKs and demanded immediate answers from the Attorney General.

Ben-Gvir emphasized that while most police officers are heroes, any officer acting violently and unlawfully, especially against an MK, must be held accountable. He concluded by stating that the law is not the Attorney General's private property and demanded an immediate and equitable investigation, vowing that Otzma Yehudit would work to oust her from her position after the elections on October 27.