The Advisory Committee on Senior Civil Service Appointments in Israel, led by former High Court of Justice president Asher Grunis, is convening this Thursday to discuss the appointment of Avshalom Peled as the new Israel Police commissioner. The committee ensures that candidates for senior positions are free of any issues or defects by thoroughly vetting them.
Opponents of Peled have raised concerns that his nomination may be politically motivated, especially since National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir nominated him. They presented evidence of a past investigation against Peled by the Department of Internal Police Investigations in 2015, where he was accused of soliciting illegal construction permits.
Although the case was closed with a recommendation against promoting Peled, former Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh promoted him nonetheless. The controversy continues as Peled’s opponents question the timing of the investigation being brought up again and its connection to Ben-Gvir’s interests. This adds to the ongoing debate over Peled’s suitability for the role.
Stay tuned as the committee’s decision could have significant implications on the leadership of the Israel Police and its operational integrity.