Israel's National Security Minister and Police Commissioner Meet Amid Budget Dispute

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Police Commissioner Danny Levy are scheduled to meet Thursday afternoon for the first time since their public dispute began. The primary focus of their discussion will be the police budget and resource allocation, a contentious issue that has fueled recent tensions between the two.

Sources within the police have criticized Commissioner Levy, accusing him of employing "intimidation tactics" by warning that without the requested budget, the police will be unable to ensure citizen safety. These sources claim Levy is attempting to pressure public opinion and influence the government by exaggerating potential security shortfalls. "The Commissioner is using public intimidation tactics to change public opinion and saying there will be no budget to protect the citizens of the State of Israel. These intimidation tactics are suitable for politicians, not for a serious professional," police sources stated.

Despite these warnings, police operations are continuing as usual. On Thursday morning, the police launched a nationwide exercise named "Toolbox," led by the Operations Division, as part of preparations for the High Holy Days. The exercise involves various police units, border police, control and intelligence systems, volunteers, and civilian emergency squads, simulating security scenarios across the country.

The budget conflict adds to existing friction between Ben-Gvir and Levy concerning appointments within the police force. Recent disagreements have arisen over organizational priorities and the promotion of officers, with the current dispute shifting the focus to financial matters and resource distribution. Thursday's meeting represents the first direct attempt by the minister and commissioner to address their disagreements since the conflict became public.