Netanyahu Defends Ben Gvir Amid High Court Petitions for Ouster

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged the Israeli High Court of Justice to reject petitions seeking the dismissal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, labeling the attempts as unconstitutional. The petitions, which allege Ben Gvir's unlawful interference in police operations and investigations, are set to be heard by a nine-justice panel. Netanyahu's 129-page court filing argues that accepting the petitions would improperly empower the judiciary in political matters, undermining the separation of powers.

Times of Israel

Itamar Ben Gvir, a far-right politician, has faced significant scrutiny during his tenure as national security minister. Critics assert that his actions have compromised police independence, particularly through his public support for officers involved in controversial incidents. His involvement in police operations, including the establishment of an incitement department, has raised alarms regarding potential overreach and politicization of law enforcement. The Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, previously supported a legally binding agreement to limit Ben Gvir's influence, which ultimately failed due to his repeated violations.

Times of Israel

In his defense, Netanyahu acknowledged the allegations against Ben Gvir but contended that such matters should be resolved in administrative courts rather than the High Court. He emphasized that Ben Gvir's policies regarding police operations and the Temple Mount have been coordinated with him and do not violate existing agreements with Jordan. Netanyahu's filing also expressed support for Ben Gvir's handling of protests and law enforcement's approach to Jewish prayer at the Temple Mount.

Times of Israel

Opponents of Ben Gvir's policies have voiced concerns that his actions threaten the integrity of law enforcement. The Jerusalem District Court recently intervened to promote a police investigator, Rinat Saban, after ruling that Ben Gvir had obstructed her advancement for improper reasons. Additionally, the Jordanian Foreign Ministry condemned Ben Gvir's activities at the Temple Mount, labeling them a violation of the historical status quo and a provocation that could escalate tensions.

Times of Israel

• “Accepting the petitions would indicate that the court is, in practice, assigning itself an active and significant role in the political arena without any legal authority,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel

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• “I keep pressing the prime minister to do more and more and more things. We must go even further, higher and higher,” — Itamar Ben Gvir, National Security Minister

Times of Israel

The High Court is scheduled to hear the petitions against Ben Gvir on Wednesday, following a previous postponement due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The outcome of this hearing could have significant implications for the balance of power between the judiciary and the executive branch in Israel, particularly concerning the role of government ministers in law enforcement.

Times of Israel