New Police Investigations Law Grants Politically Appointed Independent Prosecutor Broad Powers

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, including investigating police officers suspected of leaking information and summoning journalists to reveal their sources without external checks.

The law allows investigations beyond traditional police misconduct such as obstruction, theft, or violence, extending to 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, highlight fears that such practices could become routine.

Critics warn the law threatens press freedom and democracy by enabling authorities to summon journalists who report on sensitive issues, like corruption in the Prime Minister's office, demanding source disclosure. Since leaking information is not a criminal offense and is common in democratic societies, the law is seen as an attempt to control information flow. There is apprehension that politicians may continue leaking selectively while using Mahash to target unfavorable media reports through investigations.

The law's passage marks a significant shift in the balance between political influence, police oversight, and media freedom in Israel, with potential implications for democratic transparency and journalistic independence.