Former Adviser to National Security Minister Pursues Top Police Legal Counsel Role After Case Closure
After months of intense investigations by the Lahav 433 unit, former legislative adviser to Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, attorney David Bavli, is aggressively pursuing the position of legal adviser to the Israel Police. This follows the Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's decision to close criminal cases against Bavli and three other employees from Ben-Gvir's office without indictments. The investigation, which began in November 2024, focused on the surge in firearm license issuances after the October 7 terror attacks and the establishment of a reinforcement system that issued tens of thousands of licenses.
Bavli, who reportedly approved over 700 licenses alone within this system, strongly criticized the law enforcement agencies, claiming the investigation was used as leverage to block his appointment to key public roles, including the police legal adviser. He stated that the case closure confirms the baselessness of the suspicions and paves the way for his return to prominence.
Despite the closure of these cases, the matter remains unresolved. The State Prosecutor's Economic Department is still considering indicting Israel Avishar, former head of the Firearms Licensing Division, on suspicions of fraud and breach of trust related to granting unauthorized individuals, including Ben-Gvir's staff, national service volunteers, and Knesset employees, involvement in issuing thousands of licenses.
The investigation revealed administrative flaws but no criminal offenses, leading the police and prosecution to recommend case closure. The controversy stems from Ben-Gvir's firearm reform, which significantly increased civilian gun licenses to enhance personal security amid rising terrorism. Critics argue the reform was rushed and lacked sufficient oversight, resulting in procedural deficiencies. The ongoing legal and political struggle highlights the power dynamics within Israel's law enforcement and the challenges in regulating firearm licensing.
