Judge Noam Solberg Blocks Interim Injunction Against New Police Investigations Unit Appointment

The Israeli Supreme Court has yet to issue an interim injunction to halt the appointment process for the new Police Investigations Department (Mahash), despite petitions filed against its establishment. The new department was created following legislation initiated by Knesset member Moshe Saada and passed in a final reading. A special judicial panel, including Judges Yitzhak Amit, Daphna Erez, and Noam Solberg, was appointed to hear the case. Legal and political sources suggest that Judge Noam Solberg opposes issuing such an injunction, effectively blocking efforts to delay the appointment.

The court demanded that the Justice Minister clarify how the head of Mahash would be appointed during the election period, when appointment restrictions apply. However, no injunction has been issued to stop the process. The Attorney General's legal advisor previously approved appointments during election periods, noting that the current appointment process began before elections were called. It was also highlighted that the previous government appointed a military chief just two weeks before elections during a transitional government.

The Ministry of Justice, represented by Director General Itamar Donenfeld, confirmed that the appointment would follow existing laws and procedures allowing appointments during election periods once approved by the Civil Service Commissioner. The urgency of appointing a new Mahash head is underscored by the departure of the former director, Keren Bar Menachem, leaving the department without a defined leader. The prior practice of the Attorney General appointing the Mahash head was abolished with the new law.

The ongoing legal challenge and the absence of an interim injunction have raised concerns over potential attempts to obstruct the establishment of the new police investigations unit during a politically sensitive period. The Supreme Court's handling of this case remains closely watched as the appointment process continues amid election-related constraints.