Ben-Gvir Urges Supreme Court to Overturn Order Limiting His Police Protest Intervention

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir has urgently petitioned Israel's Supreme Court (Bagatz) to revoke a restraining order that limits his involvement in police decisions regarding demonstrations. The petition comes amid allegations that Police Commissioner Danny Levi has employed excessive force against Haredi protesters and interfered with officers' operational discretion.

Ben-Gvir claims to have learned that Levi instructed police forces to use severe and heightened violence against Haredi demonstrators, allegedly stating, "I want to see blood." The minister also asserts that Levi directly ordered commanders to use batons and stun grenades before protests began, bypassing proper procedures and the chain of command. These accusations are presented as the minister's claims and have not been substantiated by an investigative body or court.

Furthermore, Ben-Gvir accuses Levi of managerial misconduct, including transferring district commanders without ministerial approval, missing critical situation assessments, and traveling abroad without informing or obtaining consent from the minister. The minister also alleges discriminatory enforcement, with disproportionate force used against Haredi protesters compared to left-wing demonstrators, warning that this could endanger lives and lead to bloodshed.

Politically, Ben-Gvir criticized Levi, suggesting his actions were influenced by the recent election results and preparations for future political alignments. The minister argues that the current restraining order prevents him from effectively intervening to curb police violence during protests. The petition to lift the interim order remains pending, and the order continues to be in effect until the court rules otherwise. The Police Commissioner has not yet responded to these specific allegations.