Netanyahu Defends Ben Gvir Against Dismissal Petitions

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally responded to the High Court of Justice concerning petitions aimed at dismissing National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. In his submission, Netanyahu stated that there are no legal or administrative grounds for terminating Ben Gvir's tenure. He emphasized that Ben Gvir's appointment was made in accordance with the law and reiterated that his stance has remained unchanged since the minister's appointment.

Netanyahu pointed out that while the procedures governing Ben Gvir's relationship with the police have not been fully established, this does not justify his dismissal. He argued that Ben Gvir does not reject the principle of police independence and that the controversies surrounding his actions do not provide a legal basis for disqualification from office.

Furthermore, Netanyahu contended that the petitions represent a non-justiciable issue and criticized Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara's position. He claimed her legal opinion reflects an "inflation of the events" and fails to establish a direct connection between the cited incidents and any legal justification for dismissing the minister.

In response, Ben Gvir expressed his appreciation for Netanyahu's defense, stating, "I welcome the Prime Minister's clear response to the criminal Attorney General. Deep state bureaucrats have absolutely no authority to remove ministers from office. After the elections, we will remove the deep state bureaucrats ourselves." This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and legal authorities regarding ministerial accountability and the limits of bureaucratic power.