Nearly 28% of Israeli police officers recruited since Itamar Ben-Gvir became national security minister in December 2022 have left the force, according to a Haaretz report, as Israel’s police struggle with persistent staffing shortages despite increased recruitment.
The figures were presented during closed-door discussions examining personnel shortages across the police force, according to the Israeli newspaper.
Although recruitment has increased during Ben-Gvir’s tenure, more than a quarter of new personnel have been assigned to the Border Police or the National Guard, which falls under the National Security Ministry.
The recruitment drive has failed to address a shortage of approximately 2,000 officers at police stations and in traffic enforcement units, according to the report.
The findings raise questions about the distribution and retention of newly recruited officers, with police stations continuing to face staffing gaps despite efforts to expand the force.
Haaretz also reported concerns about recruitment statistics, saying police figures have included temporary personnel and students employed in part-time positions alongside officers recruited for permanent service.
The newspaper cited a senior police officer who alleged that recruitment figures were presented differently in staffing discussions and budget requests.
Israel’s government formally approved the establishment of a National Guard under the National Security Ministry in April 2023.
The decision to place the force under Ben-Gvir’s authority drew criticism from political opponents, who argued that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had effectively agreed to establish a force under the control of the far-right Jewish Power party leader in exchange for political concessions.
Critics described the proposed force as a private militia, raising concerns about political control over policing and the concentration of security powers under the national security minister.
