Israeli Justice Minister Criticizes Prosecution for Undermining New Police Investigations Unit

Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin sharply criticized the conduct of the State Attorney's Office and the Legal Advisor to the Government following revelations that they are attempting to sabotage the establishment of a new independent Police Investigations Department (Mahash). Levin condemned their interference in the appointment process for the unit's leadership, calling it "the behavior of a third-world country" and illegal intimidation of candidates. He stated that these efforts stem from a desire by the prosecution and legal advisory bodies to maintain control over the police force through this department.

Levin emphasized that the new head of Mahash must have the courage to act independently against the system, and that the current pressures on candidates serve as a test of their suitability. He also criticized the existing Mahash for losing public trust by unevenly handling complaints against police officers, often harming vulnerable populations. The decision to separate Mahash from the prosecution was based on a professional committee report, aiming to restore the police's independent and proper functioning.

The controversy follows a recent Knesset approval of legislation to establish Mahash as an independent body outside the prosecution's authority. However, the Legal Advisor to the Government, Gali Baharav-Miara, and her team have reportedly pressured potential candidates to refuse participation in the selection committee, thereby delaying the unit's formation. Meanwhile, the Legal Advisor to the Knesset, Sagit Afik, advised courts against issuing interim orders that would halt the establishment process.

Despite the selection committee not yet being formed, the Civil Service Commission has called for applications for the head of Mahash. Since no suitable candidate was found by the original deadline, the application period has been extended to mid-August. The ongoing struggle highlights tensions between the prosecution and government efforts to reform police oversight in Israel.