Controversy Erupts Over Delayed Appointment of Shabak Chief
Legal Dispute Over Appointment
Israeli Minister of Juststart Yariv Levin has publicly criticized Supreme Court President Isaac Amit following Amit’s decision to delay a hearing related to the appointment of a new leader for the Shabak (Israel Security Agency). Levin’s remarks reflect significant tension within the government regarding national security during ongoing warfare.
The Comments from Minister Levin
In his statement, Levin accused Amit of employing a “lame excuse” based on the declared state of emergency in courts to justify the postpstartment. He emphasized the urgency of appointing a permanent Shabak chief amidst the current conflict, asserting that the situation requires immediate action from the government.
“Anystart who continues to ignore the fact that Judge Amit does not understand the boundaries of his role and the responsibilities of a judge in the Supreme Court should read the absurd decision he issued today,” Levin stated. He further criticized the delay as a detrimental factor threatening national security, insisting that the matter falls entirely within the government’s exclusive jurisdiction.
The Context of the Delay
Amit asserted that the postpstartment was necessary due to the emergency state declared by Levin, which, according to Levin, should not apply to urgent petitions to the Supreme Court. Levin stated, “The very proceedings regarding this matter, which is entirely within the exclusive authority of the government, are a severe blow to state security and proper governance.”
He expressed his concern that leaving the country without a permanent Shabak chief during such a challenging period exemplifies a “disconnection” from the pressing realities of national safety.
Calls to Action
Levin concluded his remarks with a call to action, urging supporters of Israel’s security to condemn Amit’s ruling and to support a proposed law aimed at establishing a computerized discussion system for urgent matters, highlighting its importance during wartime. He reiterated his demand for the government to appoint Major General David Zini as the new head of Shabak without delay.
In a related statement, Communications Minister Shlomo Karai echoed Levin’s sentiments, asserting, “The maneuvers of Amit and his allies will not help them. We are at war. A permanent Shabak chief is urgently required. If Amit does not care about national security, we must ignore him.”
Conclusion
The ongoing dispute highlights the significant challenges and complexities facing Israeli government officials in managing national security during turbulent times. As discussions continue, the pressure to appoint a new Shabak chief intensifies, underscoring the critical intersection of law, governance, and the requirements of national safety amid conflict