Ben Gvir Clashes with Journalist and Accuses Attorney General of Blackmail
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir clashed with a journalist on 103FM radio, later accusing the Attorney General of blackmailing the Police Commissioner.
A routine interview with Israel's National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, on 103FM radio devolved into a heated personal clash on Sunday morning. Scheduled co-host Eli Ohana was feeling unwell and was replaced by journalist Avishay Grinzaig. Ben Gvir immediately objected to the interviewer, stating on air that had he known Grinzaig would conduct the interview, he would not have participated.
Tensions escalated quickly when Grinzaig questioned why the police have not published official crime statistics. Ben Gvir deflected the question, launching a personal attack on the journalist and accusing him of harboring a professional obsession. Grinzaig maintained his composure, insisting he was merely asking a polite and legitimate question on behalf of the public.
Minister Defends Record Amid Clashes
During the back-and-forth, Ben Gvir listed several achievements he attributes to his tenure, including the establishment of hundreds of civilian defense squads, tougher conditions for security prisoners, and the demolition of thousands of illegal structures in the Negev region. Addressing the withheld crime data, the minister claimed vehicle thefts have dropped by 20% this year, though he distanced himself from the administrative delay in publishing figures.
The conversation then pivoted toward a directive issued by the head of the police Investigations and Intelligence Directorate, Deputy Commissioner Boaz Blat, requiring all investigative materials concerning an election interference probe to pass through his office before being shared with the Shin Bet.
Severe Allegations Against Top Officials
Ben Gvir launched a blistering attack on senior law enforcement figures, branding Deputy Commissioner Blat a "liar" and stating he does not trust him. The minister also turned his criticism toward Inspector General of Police Danny Levi, whom he personally appointed, claiming that the police chief has "changed his skin" under pressure.
"The Police Commissioner is being blackmailed and threatened by the Attorney General," Ben Gvir asserted, alleging that Gali Baharav-Miara intimidates officials during meetings. When pressed for evidence supporting the blackmail claim, the minister pointed to alleged zoning violations at the police chief's residence, calling for an independent inquiry into the matter. The confrontation concluded with Ben Gvir arguing that high voter turnout in the Arab sector actually validated his aggressive law enforcement policies.
