Ben-Gvir to Convene Police Election Readiness Meeting Amid Criticism

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir is scheduled to hold an unusual meeting with top police officials on Thursday to discuss the organization's preparations for the upcoming elections. The meeting, set to take place in the minister's office, will include senior figures from the operations and investigations departments, as well as the head of the police's election directorate.

Senior figures within the law enforcement system have sharply criticized the timing and nature of the discussion, particularly its occurrence just days before the elections. They expressed doubts about the meeting's professionalism, citing Ben-Gvir's own political candidacy and his party's activities. A significant concern raised is that Ben-Gvir might exploit the information shared during the meeting for his political advantage.

One senior official told "Haaretz" that the discussion sends a negative message to voters, implying the police are under Ben-Gvir's control. "Elections are supposed to be free of any political influence," the official stated, emphasizing the police's need for complete independence on election day. "There is no need for Ben-Gvir to know the police's operational assessments, and there is a concern he will use what he hears for his political needs."

Sources indicate that Ben-Gvir has largely avoided professional discussions in recent weeks due to his involvement in his party's campaign, making this planned meeting highly irregular. Last week, Police Commissioner Dany Levy held a meeting with senior police command staff, along with representatives from the Central Elections Committee, the IDF, and the Shin Bet, to discuss election readiness, public order, and ensuring a safe and proper election process.

Commissioner Levy reiterated that the Israel Police is a professional and apolitical organization, instructing officers not to express political views during their service. He assured that the police are prepared for all scenarios to safeguard the integrity of the elections. Dean Livneh, acting director general of the Central Elections Committee, and Committee Chairman Justice Noam Sohlberg expressed confidence in the police's ability to uphold election integrity.

Ben-Gvir's office defended the meeting, stating it is a ministerial duty and a regular occurrence. They argued that if preparations fail, the minister would be blamed.