Sohlberg allows Ben-Gvir to attend police event despite election campaigning concerns

Central Elections Committee Chairman Noam Sohlberg has permitted National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to attend and speak at an Israel Police appreciation event, despite a petition from NGO Voting for Israel alleging it would constitute prohibited election campaigning. The event celebrates 50 years of police volunteers and emergency squads. Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara had supported barring Ben-Gvir, citing concerns that the police-funded event could become election campaigning. Sohlberg noted Ben-Gvir's sworn affidavit not to campaign, stating, “It goes without saying that no one is permitted to engage in election campaigning - verbally, visually or in any other manner - at this event.” Sohlberg also recommended pre-review of speeches by legal advisers.