Police Face Scrutiny Over Alleged Biased Enforcement Against Haredim

The Israeli Police are facing criticism for allegedly disproportionate and harsh enforcement tactics against Haredi protesters, contrasting with their handling of left-wing demonstrations. While left-wing protests have seen road blockages and disruptions, the article claims that Haredi demonstrations, even those without violence, have been met with riot dispersal methods like stun grenades and batons, resulting in injuries requiring medical attention. The author questions whether the police have investigated these injuries, initiated investigations against officers involved, or reviewed footage from protests in cities like Bnei Brak, Jerusalem, and Beit Shemesh. Instead of addressing these concerns, the police have reportedly attacked the minister, citing damage to public trust. The article argues that public trust erodes when citizens witness excessive force against Haredi protesters and perceive unequal application of the law. It asserts that police are not immune to criticism and that claims of equal enforcement must be backed by data, such as the number of stun grenade deployments at different types of protests, complaints filed, and investigations by the Police Internal Investigations Department (Mahash). The piece also references internal police turmoil, with reports of the Police Commissioner losing control and a response to Minister Ben-Gvir calling his claims "absurd and delusional." The author emphasizes that Haredi citizens are not second-class and have a right to protest, but police responses must remain lawful, proportionate, and equitable. True statehood, the article concludes, is demonstrated through transparency and accountability for unjustified harm, not just through press releases.