Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir sent a letter to Police Commissioner Yaakov Shabtai and Tel Aviv District Commander Ami Ashad, in which he alleges a violation of freedom of expression and requests clarification on the arrest of a haredi who demonstrated near the Pride Parade in Tel Aviv last week.
Minister Ben-Gvir wrote: "It appears that the Israel Police violated the freedom of expression of a man named Aharon Borstein by unjustly arresting him and serving him unjustified restraining orders just because he was holding a sign that read "I protest". Only after the intervention of the court was he released without any conditions."
"This is a violation of the law and a violation of freedom of expression. It also goes against my policy, and contrary to your statements that you will allow freedom of expression for everyone," he added.
According to the minister, this is a deviation from his instructions and the provisions of the law. "A few hours before the Pride Parade in the city of Tel Aviv, I held a situation assessment meeting with you. During that meeting I reviewed the provisions of the law and my policies, which on the one hand require maintaining public safety, but on the other hand allow freedom of expression for everyone. During the meeting I inquired whether you are complying with my policy as mentioned, also regarding the people who demonstrate against the parade. The commander of the Tel Aviv district answered me in the affirmative."
Following this incident, Minister Ben-Gvir is seeking clarification from the two officers regarding the continuation of the protester's detention, which has been extended until next Sunday.