Disciplinary Hearing Opens Against Former Police Legal Advisor Candidate David Bavli Over Controversial Remarks

A disciplinary hearing has commenced at the State Employees Disciplinary Court against David Bavli, former candidate for the Police Legal Advisor position and assistant to Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Bavli faces allegations of making inappropriate remarks toward Knesset member Merav Ben Ari and her aide during a parliamentary committee meeting, including insults and claims that she "does not pass laws." He also reportedly criticized Knesset member Kariv on Twitter for allegedly leaking information illegally.

Bavli's attorney, Ariel Atri, argued that the case is a politically motivated "gag lawsuit" intended to silence legitimate criticism. He further claimed the proceedings demonstrate selective enforcement and discriminatory treatment between men and women. Bavli himself described the process as a political persecution led by the State Attorney against Ben-Gvir and his associates, citing a prior criminal investigation related to arms distribution and ongoing attempts to silence him through administrative charges over social media posts and disputes with Ben Ari and her spokesperson.

The hearing follows a court recess and reflects heightened tensions surrounding political and legal conflicts involving right-wing figures in Israel. Bavli's defense seeks to dismiss the charges as politically driven, while the disciplinary court will determine the outcome based on the evidence presented.