Arab Local Leaders Petition Israeli Supreme Court Against Shin Bet Crime Fight in Arab Sector

The National Committee of Arab Local Authorities, along with human rights organizations, filed a petition to Israel's Supreme Court against Minister May Golan and the government. They demand the cancellation of the decision to involve the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) in combating crime within the Arab community, requesting a temporary injunction to halt the move. The petitioners argue that the Shin Bet lacks authority over civilian matters, that the decision exceeds the agency's mandate, violates equality principles, and discriminates against Arab citizens compared to other populations.

The government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Minister May Golan, and Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, has adopted a new strategic approach treating crime in the Arab sector not as ordinary criminal activity but as terrorism. They claim that conventional police tools are insufficient to dismantle crime organizations, while the Shin Bet possesses powerful operational and intelligence capabilities essential for victory.

The government contends that the legal opposition to Shin Bet involvement is not a defense of rights but an attempt to undermine state authority and the fight against criminal-terrorism using the most effective means. The approved plan reallocates approximately 497 million shekels from the five-year plan budget to strengthen the fight against crime organizations. Of this, about 364.5 million shekels will fund a dedicated Shin Bet unit targeting arms smuggling and trafficking, expanding intelligence and operational capabilities. Another 132.4 million shekels will support a national police unit combating crime in the Arab sector, employing advanced technology and operational tools.

Starting in 2026, the Shin Bet will add 130 new personnel positions and receive an annual budget of 35 million shekels for ongoing unit operations. This integrated approach aims to restore state control and curb criminal-terrorism in Arab communities, though it faces legal challenges from Arab authorities and rights groups who view it as discriminatory and overreaching.