Legal Proceedings Begin Against Itamar Ben Gvir’s Advisor for Insulting Knesset Member

The disciplinary trial of David Bavli, legal advisor to Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, commenced on Tuesday at the Civil Service Commission’s disciplinary court. Bavli, who was Ben Gvir’s candidate for police legal advisor, faces charges for insulting the legal advisor of Knesset member Merav Ben Ari by calling her "ignorant" and "brainless," as well as for several critical tweets targeting Knesset members Ben Ari and Gilad Kariv.

At the hearing’s start, Bavli’s defense attorney, Ariel Atri, argued that the complaint is politically motivated and threatens freedom of expression, especially within the Knesset. Atri emphasized that the case aims to suppress legitimate criticism and highlights the dangers of selective enforcement and gender discrimination. The court postponed the testimony of MK Merav Ben Ari to October 21.

Last year, Bavli was investigated by the Lahav 433 unit amid suspicions that over a thousand firearm licenses were improperly issued by the National Security Ministry. The investigation file was forwarded to the prosecution with a recommendation for disciplinary action. Minister Ben Gvir previously requested the Attorney General to remove the investigation from the oversight of the commanding officer, citing concerns of bias due to his disapproval of her senior appointment.

This case reflects ongoing tensions within the ministry and the political sphere regarding accountability and conduct of senior officials.