"Like a criminal organization": Senior officers demand the dismissal of Aryeh Doron

As reported this evening (Thursday) on News 14, at least ten senior Israel Police officers, including several commissioners (Nitzavim) serving on the General Staff, are uniting to demand the dismissal of police spokesperson Colonel Aryeh Doron during the upcoming round of appointments.

Aryeh Doron | Haim Goldberg, Flash 90

According to these officers, sharp appeals have been submitted in recent weeks to the Police Commissioner and the Minister of National Security. They allege that Doron leaks information and briefs journalists against senior command members, utilizing sensitive personal information regarding them and their families, including medical and family status. Sources familiar with the details state that some officers believe this conduct violates the ethical standards expected of a senior official in the police spokesperson's department and warrants an immediate review of his tenure.

Simultaneously, legal consultations have reportedly been held to explore filing a complaint with the Department of Internal Police Investigations (Mahash) to determine if there are grounds for suspicion of criminal offenses or abuse of authority. One senior officer involved in the move described the situation as "unprecedented":

"Only someone who did not grow up on the organization's values and arrived as a guest can behave this way. These are practices of a criminal organization, not a law enforcement body."

Sources indicate that the demand for Doron's dismissal is not a personal dispute but enjoys the support of a significant number of senior officers, including current General Staff commissioners, who believe trust between the spokesperson's department and the senior command has been damaged. While no decision has been announced, the issue is expected to be raised during discussions on the upcoming round of assignments within the Israel Police.

The Police Commissioner's office provides full backing to Colonel Doron. These briefings against him may lead to further friction between the Commissioner and the General Staff, and he may even consider dismissing those he suspects of orchestrating the move. The Commissioner's office stated: "The Commissioner is busy commanding the police and fighting crime and does not engage in gossip."