National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Opposes Stricter Speed Camera Enforcement

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has expressed opposition to the police traffic department's decision to lower the enforcement threshold for speed cameras. This change means that drivers on certain roads could receive fines for even minor speed limit violations. Ben-Gvir stated, "I do not like this, and I intend to hold a discussion with the police commissioner." However, it remains unclear what authority he has to alter the police's decision.

The enforcement adjustment took effect as part of a legal amendment that shifted many traffic offenses to an administrative process. This reform also updated the enforcement thresholds for fixed speed cameras, lowering the speed limit tolerance on some roads, especially those designated as high-risk. For example, on a road with a 70 km/h limit classified as highly dangerous, the enforcement threshold might drop from 85 km/h to 75 km/h. The police have not disclosed which roads will have stricter enforcement.

Additionally, the law changes how traffic offenses are handled, reclassifying some from criminal offenses to administrative violations. This allows for a faster, more automated process. Drivers wishing to contest a fine must now submit a written appeal to a specialized administrative court rather than undergo a traditional traffic court trial.