Prosecutors Accelerate Investigation Against Former MK Michael Ben Ari Ahead of 2021 Elections

Internal and confidential correspondence from the Israeli prosecution has been revealed for the first time, showing how the investigation against former Knesset member Michael Ben Ari was scheduled and expedited ahead of the 21st Knesset elections. This acceleration ultimately led to his disqualification from running. The investigation, which lasted several years, focused on allegations of incitement to racism.

Last month, Judge Ron Solkin sharply criticized the prosecution's conduct, stating that they pressured the police to quickly gather evidence against Ben Ari and even dictated the questions investigators should ask, rather than allowing the police to manage the inquiry independently. The prosecution initially opposed releasing these communications, but they were made public following the judge's ruling.

In July 2024, after a six-year investigation, the prosecution filed criminal charges against Ben Ari at the Kfar Saba Magistrate's Court. Correspondence from prosecutor Shlomi Avramzon to the police investigation unit indicated a clear political motive, noting that Ben Ari intended to run in the upcoming elections and that the frequency and intensity of his alleged offenses were expected to increase, emphasizing the need for a swift decision.

Ben Ari responded to the revelations by accusing the prosecution of rushing the investigation to disqualify him politically. He and his supporters reject the charges, claiming political persecution and legal harassment, especially highlighting that his statements were legitimate security warnings rather than racist incitement. Ben Ari was previously barred from running in the 2019 elections by the Supreme Court due to similar allegations.

This case highlights ongoing tensions between the judiciary, prosecution, and political figures in Israel, with significant implications for election law and political rights.