Israel’s Supreme Court questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Wednesday about his failure to dismiss National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, while Justice Minister Yariv Levin declared the court lacks authority to force such action.
Justice Grosskopf expressed concerns during the proceedings, stating “the claim is politicization of the police, and that is a special danger—a danger to democracy.” He questioned whether the court must intervene if evidence supports the allegations, suggesting “it may be that the prime minister has no interest in removing him.”
Legal challengers and the attorney general seek Ben-Gvir’s removal, citing his alleged meddling in police operations, personnel decisions, and protest management. They also accuse him of repeatedly breaking legal constraints and taking actions that critics claim disrupted the Temple Mount status quo. The accusations include undermining police autonomy, equal treatment under law, and legal principles.
Netanyahu’s legal representative, attorney Ravilo, defended the prime minister’s authority before Chief Justice Yitzhak Amit. Ravilo contended that “in these political matters, where the prime minister is elected to appoint ministers, his discretion is absolute. It is subject to public judgment.” He warned that approving the petitions could lead to constant legal attacks on government officials.
Government lawyers showed willingness to negotiate, with Ravilo declaring: “On behalf of the prime minister and the national security minister, we are willing to return to dialogue on an agreed framework and even be assisted by the court.”
Before the hearing began, Justice Minister Yariv Levin rejected any potential court mandate to remove Ben-Gvir, claiming the justices lack such power and declaring “the judges’ decision will have no validity.”
Protesters gathered outside the courthouse carrying signs that read “It’s time to tell the High Court—enough,” while Ben-Gvir addressed his supporters with the message: “Democracy will not fall. The judicial dictatorship will fall.”
