Advisor to National Security Minister Ben Gvir Faces Disciplinary Hearing Over Political Comments

A disciplinary hearing opened on Tuesday against attorney David Bavli, advisor to Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, following an indictment related to his remarks about Knesset members and posts on social media platform X. The indictment was filed after complaints from members of the Yesh Atid party and under the guidance of the State Attorney's Office. Bavli is accused of making inappropriate comments towards Knesset member Merav Ben Ari and her assistant during a parliamentary committee meeting, including telling Ben Ari that "she does not pass laws." He is also charged with posting on X that questioned the integrity of MK Gilad Kariv, accusing him of leaking a confidential protocol and comparing a violent police officer to a lying police force.

After the hearing, Bavli told Channel 7 that he believes this is a political persecution aimed at him and Minister Ben Gvir's circle. He said, "Before I started working with Minister Ben Gvir, I knew there was a deep state; since I started working with him, I feel it on my own skin." Bavli claimed the State Attorney's Office is frustrated by its inability to prevent Ben Gvir from implementing his policies and is targeting him and his close associates. He added that the proceedings began due to his involvement in advancing gun reform and continue now through this disciplinary process. Bavli emphasized that his statements fall under political free speech and that he will not be deterred, stating, "The persecution only increases my desire to continue helping the minister do good for the people of Israel."

Attorney Ariel Atri, representing Bavli, described the case as a "clear attempt to silence" and an "abuse of the disciplinary process." He argued that the procedure aims to silence Minister Ben Gvir and his associates through the Civil Service Commission, accusing it of selective enforcement and infringing on the free speech rights of right-wing figures. The defense intends to vigorously contest the charges during the hearing.