Former Police Spokesperson Files Petition Against National Security Minister Ben-Gvir Over Promotion Delay

Deputy Superintendent Itzik Elpasi, a former spokesperson for the Israeli Police's Operations and Media Division (OCHAM), has filed a petition against National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for blocking his promotion. Elpasi had successfully completed the Command and Staff Course (PO'M) and was slated to be appointed spokesperson for the Investigations and Intelligence Division and Lahav 433, a key police unit. However, Ben-Gvir has delayed the appointment without providing a formal explanation or following proper administrative procedures.

The petition argues that the minister's refusal to approve Elpasi's promotion contradicts the recommendations of senior police leadership and professional bodies, raising concerns that the decision was influenced by improper motives that undermine police independence. Elpasi was expected to return to his spokesperson role with a higher rank after completing the course, but the delay has left the sensitive Investigations Division without a permanent, experienced spokesperson.

Police sources suggest Elpasi has become a pawn in a conflict between Minister Ben-Gvir and Boaz Balat, head of the Investigations Division. Attempts to resolve the issue through dialogue with the minister have failed. Elpasi's lawyers, Dov Gilad Cohen and Amir Bartal, emphasize that the ongoing delay harms both Elpasi and the police force, as Elpasi remains in a rank without the associated responsibilities or experience.

Two months ago, Elpasi's legal team sent a pre-litigation letter to Ben-Gvir and Police Commissioner Dany Levi, urging immediate completion of the appointment. The letter noted that during the Command and Staff Course, Ben-Gvir had addressed the officers, warning them against expressing political opinions and indicating he was monitoring their discussions. The petition suggests the minister's refusal may stem from perceptions that Elpasi does not align with his political views or from comments Elpasi made during professional course discussions.