Israeli Police Block Spokespersons’ Access to Investigation Files Amid Leak Concerns

The Israeli Police have recently restricted their spokespersons from accessing active investigation files in the internal “Pele” system, following an order from Boaz Balat, head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division. This decision, implemented this week, aims to prevent information leaks from ongoing cases. However, it has sparked sharp criticism within the police force, with many seeing it as a direct blow to the spokespersons’ work and a sign of mistrust.

Police sources explained that most spokespersons previously served in investigative or legal advisory roles and are well-versed in protocols for handling sensitive case materials. Despite this, the new policy revokes their access, which insiders say undermines their ability to communicate effectively with the media and damages internal trust. A senior police official noted that if there is suspicion of leaks, it would be more appropriate to investigate specific individuals rather than impose a collective ban.

Critics argue the move complicates timely responses to urgent media inquiries, potentially harming the police’s public communication. One source described the decision as "scandalous," emphasizing that the system is an essential tool for their work and that the blanket restriction could lead to failures in crisis communication. The official also suggested technological methods to trace leaks without broadly restricting access, calling the current approach extreme and disrespectful to the spokespersons and the organization.

The controversy highlights tensions within the police regarding information security and transparency, with calls for more targeted measures to address leaks rather than collective punishment. The police have yet to comment publicly on the backlash or outline next steps for resolving the issue.