Israel’s High Court hears petition to remove far-right minister Ben-Gvir

Israel’s High Court of Justice convened on Wednesday to hear a petition calling for the removal of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, accused of unlawfully interfering in police matters. Due to concerns over courtroom disruptions, judges held the hearing without public attendance but broadcast proceedings live, according to an Anadolu correspondent.

Ben-Gvir defiant, supporters rally

Dozens of Ben-Gvir supporters gathered outside the court building, carrying signs reading “It’s time to tell the High Court: Enough” and “End the judicial dictatorship.” Addressing his supporters, Ben-Gvir said: “Gali Baharav-Miara (the government’s legal adviser) says that I am deciding policy and changing the police — she is correct.” He added: “More than half a million voters chose us to bring about real change,” and warned the court: “Do not drag Israel into a constitutional crisis. Legal dictatorship will fall.”

Justice minister rejects court’s authority

Justice Minister Yariv Levin stated that the government would not respect any ruling ordering Ben-Gvir’s removal, calling the hearing “unlawful” and saying any decision would have “zero validity.” He insisted that Ben-Gvir “will continue to serve in his position by virtue of the decision of the people and the trust of the Knesset.” Petitioners are seeking to compel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to dismiss Ben-Gvir over his “repeated and unlawful interference in operational police matters, politicization of police appointments, and overt interference in police investigations,” according to Israeli media.