National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Opposes New Speed Camera Enforcement Policy

Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister, has publicly criticized a recent change in the enforcement policy of speed cameras by the Israel Police, which falls under his jurisdiction. The new policy allows fines to be issued for even minor speed violations of a few kilometers per hour above the limit. Ben-Gvir called the decision "wrong" and expressed concern about unfairly burdening ordinary citizens financially. He demanded a formal discussion on the matter and intends to consult with Police Commissioner Danni Levi to review the rationale behind the policy shift.

The policy change was announced last weekend by the Traffic Department of the Israel Police, permitting fines for small speed excesses at certain speed cameras nationwide. This move has sparked widespread criticism among drivers and on social media. Ben-Gvir revealed that within the government, there had been consideration of the opposite approach, raising speed limits on some roads to ease financial pressure on drivers. He participated in a ministerial team with Yariv Levin and Miri Regev discussing this possibility.

Ben-Gvir also questioned the effectiveness of issuing numerous speeding fines as a means to reduce road accidents, stating that despite many fines, accident rates have not decreased. His opposition is notable given his ministerial responsibility over the police. Following public backlash, Ben-Gvir is seeking detailed data and explanations from the police headquarters about the decision-making process and signaled that the policy might be reconsidered.