Israel’s High Court convened on Wednesday to examine four petitions, supported by the attorney general, seeking the removal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, a prominent far-right figure. This legal challenge highlights ongoing friction between the judiciary and one of Israel’s most right-wing administrations, drawing sharp criticism from several government ministers.
The petitions argue that Ben Gvir has compromised the independence of the police force. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara endorsed these petitions, having requested in January that the court compel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to justify why Ben Gvir had not been dismissed from his cabinet position. Baharav-Miara accused Ben Gvir of abusing his authority to improperly influence police operations in critical law enforcement and investigative matters, thereby violating fundamental democratic principles.
Prior to the hearing, Ben Gvir responded defiantly, demanding the arrest and investigation of the attorney general. He warned that attempts to interfere with a minister’s appointment and powers threaten democracy, asserting that while democracy will endure, what he termed the “judicial dictatorship” will not.
Justice Minister Yariv Levin also condemned the hearing, labeling it “illegal” and declaring that any ruling by the judges would lack legitimacy. On Monday, Prime Minister Netanyahu submitted a detailed 129-page response opposing the effort to remove Ben Gvir. He described the petitions as an “unconstitutional demand,” arguing that the court does not have the authority to intervene in government appointments or decisions.
Last month, Netanyahu characterized the attorney general’s request as “inconceivable in the midst of an existential war,” emphasizing that calling for the dismissal of a senior minister, who is not under criminal investigation, undermines the foundations of democracy.
