New Police Investigations Law Grants Politically Appointed Prosecutor Broad Powers Over Journalists

Israel's new Police Investigations Department (Mahash) law transforms the head of Mahash into an independent prosecutor appointed through a politically controlled committee, removing oversight by the Attorney General. This change grants the Mahash chief extensive authority to investigate police officers, including those suspected of leaking information, and to summon journalists to reveal their sources without external checks.

The law allows investigations beyond traditional police misconduct, enabling probes into leaks that may involve journalists. The politically influenced appointment process raises concerns about daily political pressure affecting investigations. Recent incidents, such as pressure on the Shin Bet chief to investigate Channel 12 over leaks, illustrate potential misuse.

Critics warn the law threatens press freedom and democracy by enabling politically motivated inquiries into journalists who publish sensitive information, such as corruption in the Prime Minister's office. While leaks are common and not criminal offenses, the law could institutionalize control over information flow, allowing politicians to leak selectively while targeting unfavorable media reports through Mahash investigations.

The legislation follows calls by the Prime Minister to investigate leaks related to high-profile corruption cases, potentially normalizing such probes. Observers fear this will undermine democratic norms by restricting journalistic independence and transparency.