Israeli Court Allows Netanyahu Meeting with Police Chief Amid Election Concerns

The Israeli Attorney General has approved a meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and the Police Commissioner to discuss public order and police preparations, but explicitly ruled out any discussion of election integrity or related matters. The approval came after a petition from the Yachad party, led by Gadi Eisenkot, sought to cancel the meeting, fearing it could be used to influence the election process or undermine public trust in its fairness. The Attorney General had previously voiced opposition, stating that election management and ensuring the integrity of the voting process fall under the purview of the Central Election Committee, not the political echelon. She noted the unusual nature of such a meeting so close to an election, with no precedent known to her.

The Likud party countered that the meeting is a continuation of security discussions related to threats and not about election integrity, offering to allow a representative from the Central Election Committee to attend. Reports indicate Ben-Gvir will attend with Netanyahu and the Police Commissioner, but without opposition or Central Election Committee representatives, drawing criticism regarding the timing and oversight of election arrangements. Netanyahu and Ben-Gvir can meet the Police Commissioner on general public order issues and police readiness, but they have no authority to issue directives concerning election integrity or management, the Attorney General clarified. She emphasized that election integrity is the responsibility of the Central Election Committee and its chairman, urging all parties to exercise caution and respect their designated authorities.

This dispute occurs amid ongoing criticism of Ben-Gvir's involvement in police operations since he became National Security Minister, raising questions about the boundaries of his political authority and the independence of the police. The Attorney General has previously called for clear restrictions on the minister's interference, particularly concerning protests, criminal investigations, and sensitive appointments, warning that political intervention could compromise law enforcement's independence. In April 2026, the Israeli Supreme Court reinforced limitations on Ben-Gvir's relationship with the police, stressing the need to separate general policy-making from operational decisions and investigations, while imposing controls on certain appointments and statements regarding the use of force.