Police commissioner denies ordering violence against haredim as feud with Ben-Gvir escalates

Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levy denied allegations that he ordered excessive violence against haredi protesters, calling the claims baseless and demanding a retraction from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The dispute follows violent protests on Thursday near Bnei Brak and Petah Tikva, where police used batons, stun grenades and a water cannon. Ben-Gvir doubled down on his accusations.

Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levy denied allegations that he instructed officers to use excessive violence against haredi protesters, according to a police statement released on Monday. The dispute follows protests on Thursday, October 29, during which demonstrators blocked Highway 4 near Bnei Brak and light rail tracks in Petah Tikva. The protests turned violent, leaving three police officers and several protesters injured, with three protesters arrested. Police used batons, stun grenades and a water cannon to disperse the crowds. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir accused Levy of ordering violence and saying he wanted to 'see blood.' Police called the allegations 'baseless, entirely unfounded and outrageous' and demanded a retraction. Ben-Gvir's office doubled down, also accusing Levy of removing district commanders without approval and traveling abroad without authorization. The article notes the protests were against the jailing of yeshiva students who failed to comply with army recruitment orders.