Police commissioner denies ordering violence against haredim as feud with Ben-Gvir escalates

Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levy categorically denied claims that he ordered police officers to use excessive force against ultra-Orthodox protesters, amid a growing feud with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The dispute erupted following violent protests on Thursday, which saw demonstrators block Highway 4 near Bnei Brak and later confront light rail tracks in Petah Tikva.

The unrest resulted in injuries to police officers and protesters alike. Three protesters were subsequently arrested, and the demonstrations were deemed unlawful due to the protesters' refusal to disperse.

Levy's office dismissed the allegations as "serious, absurd and disgraceful accusations" and condemned them as "particularly serious" accusations coming from the minister responsible for the police. The police emphatically stated that they are an "apolitical organization" dedicated to ensuring public safety and security while maintaining equal treatment for all Israeli citizens. The leadership and officers called on Ben-Gvir to retract his accusations, insisting that such statements harm those serving in the force.

Ben-Gvir had accused Levy of ordering officers to use violent tactics against haredi protesters, claiming the commissioner had expressed a desire to "see blood." The minister also demanded that the High Court of Justice allow him to intervene in decisions concerning protest dispersals. Following the police statement, Ben-Gvir reaffirmed his allegations, with his office maintaining that the minister's statements remained unchallenged.

The police commissioner's office alleged that Ben-Gvir had instructed officers and district commanders to use batons against protesters, removed district commanders without proper authorization, and had traveled abroad without his approval. The minister expressed appreciation for the police officers while attributing the ongoing issues to the commissioner, who had decided to "court" certain individuals following the election results.