Public Security Minister Avi Dichter informed Maj.-Gen. Uri Bar-Lev, Commander of the Israel Police Department's Southern District, that he is considering firing him for insubordination, because of his refusal to go on a study leave. The minister met Bar-Lev Sunday afternoon after meeting Police Commissioner Dudi Cohen.
Commissioner Cohen wanted to fire Bar-Lev but Dichter interceded and suggested a one-year study leave until the next round of appointments. Bar-Lev refused, saying that this would be a waste of public funds.