Transport Ministry Accuses MK Goldknopf of Unauthorized Siren Use After Resignation

About a month after a Haredi protest advocating draft evasion, where MK Yitzhak Goldknopf used a siren without operational need, the Israeli Transport Ministry claimed that the permit for siren use was granted to him based on his role as Minister of Construction and Housing. However, Goldknopf no longer holds that ministerial position. The issue arose after MK Naor Shiri (Yesh Atid) submitted a query following footage from the protest showing Goldknopf operating a red and blue siren on his vehicle while leading a slow-moving convoy from Jerusalem on June 24, 2023.

The ministry's response stated that the permit was issued on January 24, 2023, during Goldknopf's tenure as minister, and that the permit holder is not authorized to use it after leaving the position. The ministry placed responsibility on Goldknopf for failing to report his resignation, which was publicly announced in June 2023. They emphasized that the siren use is strictly limited to official duties and that any changes in status must be reported by the permit holder or their superior.

Regarding the siren colors, the ministry clarified that only blue lights are authorized for such permits, while red lights are reserved exclusively for Magen David Adom ambulances, IDF ambulances, and fire trucks. Goldknopf's office declined to comment on the matter. The protest involved 19 locations across Israel, with Goldknopf leading the convoy, which was documented using unauthorized siren colors and usage outside official capacity.