Minister Ben Gvir Blocks Promotions of Two Police Officers Amid Legal and Ethical Concerns

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir is delaying the promotions of two senior police officers, Superintendent Reut Rosenberg and Deputy Superintendent Itzik Alfasi, prompting warnings from the Deputy Attorney Generals about potential improper motives. The Deputy AGs have formally requested Ben Gvir to justify his decision, expressing concern that the delays reflect a pattern of misuse of appointment powers rather than isolated incidents. They highlighted that such actions have previously led to judicial intervention and criticism regarding the minister's motives, which may undermine the independence of law enforcement.

Both officers were recommended for promotion by the Police Commissioner and senior command staff, but Ben Gvir has withheld approval. An informed source told N12 that Rosenberg's only "offense" was receiving a promotion recommendation from the police's former legal advisor, with whom Ben Gvir reportedly has a contentious history. This is not the first time Ben Gvir has obstructed police promotions against professional advice; a recent case involved Superintendent Rinat Saban, whose promotion was eventually enforced by a court ruling citing extreme unreasonableness in the minister's refusal.

The ongoing dispute underscores tensions between the minister's authority over police appointments and the professional and legal frameworks designed to ensure merit-based promotions. The Deputy AGs' letter warns that continued interference risks creating a chilling effect on police autonomy and operational independence. Ben Gvir has yet to publicly respond to the demand for explanation regarding the current promotion delays.