Full Breakdown
Elazar Kahana to Retire as Israel Police Legal Adviser
12/28/2025, 1:47:03 AM
Key Details of Kahana's Departure
Assistant Commissioner Elazar Kahana, the top legal adviser to the Israel Police, is set to retire on February 15, 2024, after serving in the role for four and a half years. His resignation follows a tumultuous year marked by a failed attempt by Police Chief Danny Levy to dismiss him and reassign him to a less influential position within the police force. Kahana's tenure in law enforcement spans three decades.
Background of Tensions
The friction between Kahana and Levy intensified when Kahana opposed National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir's attempt to promote Superintendent Meir Suissa, who faced legal issues after being indicted for throwing a stun grenade into a crowd of anti-government protesters. Kahana also supported an affidavit against Ben Gvir's refusal to approve the promotion of Superintendent Rinat Saban, a police detective involved in the investigation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption case.
Levy's initial move to dismiss Kahana was halted after Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara intervened, asserting that the dismissal would be illegal. This intervention underscored the complexities of the internal dynamics within the Israel Police and the influence of political figures on law enforcement decisions.
Official Statements
In a statement regarding Kahana's retirement, Police Chief Danny Levy expressed gratitude for Kahana's “30 years of intensive and professional service” and wished him success in future endeavors. The police department has indicated that the process to select Kahana's successor will commence shortly.
Criticism & Opposition
Kahana's opposition to political interference in police promotions has drawn attention to the broader implications of political influence on law enforcement in Israel. Critics argue that such interventions undermine the integrity of the police force and its ability to operate independently. The situation reflects ongoing tensions between law enforcement and political figures, particularly in the context of controversial actions taken by officials like Ben Gvir.
What's Next
As Kahana prepares for retirement, the Israel Police will need to navigate the challenges of selecting a new legal adviser who can maintain the balance between legal integrity and political pressures. The implications of Kahana's departure may resonate within the police force and the broader political landscape in Israel, particularly as investigations into high-profile figures continue.
Verbatim Quotes
- “thanked him for 30 years of intensive and professional service and wished him success in the future,” — Danny Levy, Police Chief
