Netanyahu backs Ben Gvir despite police interference row

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told Israel’s Supreme Court that he sees no grounds for dismissing National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, even as negotiations to limit the minister’s involvement in police operations have collapsed. The statement represents a firm show of support for the far-right politician at a time when civil rights groups have expressed serious concerns about ministerial interference in law enforcement independence.

Ben Gvir, who leads the Otzma Yehudit party, welcomed Netanyahu’s backing whilst simultaneously launching a fresh attack on what he characterised as the “deep state”. The minister suggested that after the next election, his government would move to remove senior officials he believes are obstructing his agenda. His combative response underscores the ongoing tensions within Israel’s coalition government over the scope of the security minister’s authority.

The collapse of negotiations between Netanyahu’s office and Ben Gvir’s ministry over constraints on police interference represents a significant setback for those seeking to maintain institutional checks on political power over law enforcement. Under Israeli law, the security minister holds considerable influence over police operations, a dynamic that has raised questions about the independence of the police force and its ability to operate free from political pressure.

The Supreme Court petition challenging Ben Gvir’s appointment had argued that his record and stated positions raised concerns about the politicisation of policing. Netanyahu’s decision to oppose his removal signals that the prime minister views maintaining coalition stability as more important than addressing those institutional safeguards.

Source: Maariv — Original article in Hebrew.