National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir Opposes Lower Speed Camera Enforcement Thresholds

The Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has voiced opposition to the police traffic department's recent decision to lower the enforcement threshold for speed cameras. This change allows fines to be issued for minor speed violations, a move that has sparked criticism from various quarters. Ben Gvir, who has a history of numerous traffic offenses, stated he intends to discuss the matter with the police commissioner, although his authority to influence the decision remains unclear.

The police implemented a legal amendment that reclassifies many traffic offenses as administrative violations rather than criminal ones, streamlining enforcement and shifting from court trials to written appeals in administrative tribunals. Under the new system, speed cameras will issue fines for smaller speed excesses; for example, on roads with a 70 km/h limit, fines will be given starting at 75 km/h instead of the previous 85 km/h threshold. The police have not disclosed which roads will have stricter enforcement.

Ben Gvir's own driving record includes 78 traffic violations over 23 years, including multiple offenses such as running red lights and using a phone while driving. In April 2024, he was lightly injured in a car accident when his heavily armored vehicle ran a red light and collided with another car. The crash caused the vehicle to overturn, injuring Ben Gvir, his daughter, a bodyguard, and a second driver lightly. Video footage revealed that at least three passengers, including Ben Gvir and his daughter, were not wearing seat belts at the time.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over traffic law enforcement reforms in Israel and raises questions about the balance between road safety and administrative efficiency.