Attorney General Accuses Ben Gvir of Violating Police Neutrality Commitments

Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara has presented serious allegations against National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, asserting that he has violated commitments made to the High Court of Justice regarding the operational independence of the Israeli police. During a recent court session, Baharav-Miara stated that Ben Gvir's actions have undermined the professional and politically neutral character of the police force, which is critical for maintaining public trust and the rule of law. She called for an urgent hearing to address these violations, which she claims are damaging to the police's integrity and independence.

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The conflict stems from an agreement reached in April between Baharav-Miara and Ben Gvir, wherein the minister committed to refraining from interfering in police operations, particularly concerning protests and investigations. This agreement was intended to ensure that the police would remain politically neutral. However, Baharav-Miara's recent statements indicate that she believes Ben Gvir has not adhered to these principles, particularly in light of ongoing petitions seeking his removal from office due to alleged unlawful interference in police matters.

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Baharav-Miara highlighted several specific instances where she believes Ben Gvir has acted contrary to his commitments. Notably, she pointed to his refusal to promote a police officer who testified against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a criminal trial, suggesting that this decision was influenced by political considerations. Additionally, she criticized Ben Gvir for publicly delegitimizing internal police investigations and for issuing directives that restrict certain forms of protest, which she argues contravene his agreement with the court.

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In response to the attorney general's accusations, Ben Gvir has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, claiming that Baharav-Miara is attempting to orchestrate a "coup" against him. He characterized her actions as an attempt to undermine an elected official and asserted that he would continue to dictate police policy. Ben Gvir's rhetoric reflects a broader tension between his far-right political stance and the established norms of police neutrality.

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The ongoing dispute raises significant concerns about the future of police operations in Israel. Baharav-Miara warned that Ben Gvir's conduct could deter police officers from performing their duties impartially, particularly when it involves testimony against government officials. She emphasized that the current situation lacks effective safeguards to prevent political interference in police matters, which could have lasting implications for the integrity of law enforcement in Israel.

Times of Israel

As the High Court prepares to address these allegations, the outcome could have profound effects on the relationship between political leadership and law enforcement in Israel. The case highlights the delicate balance between governance and the rule of law, as well as the potential consequences of politicizing police operations. The attorney general's call for an urgent hearing underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for clarity regarding the boundaries of political influence within the police force.

Times of Israel

• “Despite the minister’s commitment to the honorable court to act in accordance with the principles that were formulated in his agreement as a guarantee for upholding the law, the principles are being violated and the law is being violated,” — Gali Baharav-Miara, Attorney General

Times of Israel

• “The minister is apparently acting contrary to the principles formulated as guarantees for upholding the law, and continues to conduct himself in contravention of the law, in a manner that is likely to seriously harm the proper operation of the police, its professional independence, and its political neutrality,” — Gali Baharav-Miara, Attorney General

Times of Israel

• “A serious concern has arisen… that the delay in the promotion stems solely from ulterior, political considerations regarding the appointment,” — Gali Baharav-Miara, Attorney General

Times of Israel