National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir informed Police Commissioner Danny Levi that he will not approve additional senior police appointments until after Israel’s October 27 Knesset election, triggering a sharp dispute with senior police officials.

Ben Gvir argued that advancing major appointments roughly seven weeks before an election could undermine public confidence and violate the restraint normally expected of government officials during an election period.

The minister said he had asked Levi approximately four months earlier to begin preparing a round of appointments but had not received a candidate list at that time.

Ben Gvir also pointed to restrictions imposed by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara ahead of the current government’s formation, arguing that the same standard should now be applied as another government prepares to face voters.

His office later clarified that exceptional appointments could still be considered individually if the police commissioner presents a specific justification.

The dispute is also tied to disagreement surrounding a proposed deputy to the police legal adviser. According to sources close to Ben Gvir, Baharav-Miara had raised a particular candidate for the position during discussions with Levi. Ben Gvir subsequently blocked the move.

Senior police officers are threatening to petition the High Court if appointments already recommended by police leadership are not approved.

Police officials also accused the National Security Ministry of withholding approximately 500 million shekels previously allocated to the Israel Police, claiming the delay has affected station renovations, patrol vehicle purchases and other operational needs.

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