National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir Opposes Police Plan to Lower Speed Camera Enforcement Thresholds

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has publicly opposed the police traffic department's recent decision to lower the enforcement thresholds for speed cameras, a move expected to increase fines issued to drivers by 250 to 1,500 shekels. Ben Gvir criticized the plan in an interview with Galei Yisrael, calling it "a wrong decision" and requesting a formal discussion to understand the rationale behind it. He revealed that behind the scenes, there was even consideration among ministers, including Yariv and Miri Regev, to raise speed limits on certain roads rather than impose additional financial burdens on drivers.

Ben Gvir expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of fines in improving road safety, noting that despite numerous tickets issued, traffic accidents have not decreased. He plans to engage in talks with the police commissioner to address the issue. The minister's own driving record, revealed by Kan 11, shows a history of 78 traffic violations over 23 years, including 23 tickets for not wearing a seatbelt and multiple offenses for using a mobile phone while driving without hands-free equipment. His vehicle was also involved in a traffic accident that caused it to overturn, resulting in minor to moderate injuries to Ben Gvir.

In response, Yaniv Yaakov, CEO of the Or Yarok Association for Road Safety, emphasized that Israel is in a state of emergency due to rising road fatalities and that speed cameras are an effective tool to reduce accidents when placed in high-risk locations. He called for transparency from the police regarding camera placement and data, as well as public education to ensure drivers understand the changes. Yaakov stressed that the primary goal is saving lives and reducing accidents, not generating revenue for the state.