Israel’s Supreme Court on Wednesday began hearing petitions to dismiss National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, in a rare case that puts his conduct in office at the center of a major legal and political battle. The hearing, held before an expanded nine-justice panel, is examining whether he can remain in his position.

At the core of the case are claims by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara that Ben-Gvir repeatedly crossed the line between policy and policing. Her position argues the case is based not on a single incident but on a pattern of conduct, including interference in operational police decisions, involvement in appointments, and actions that risk undermining the police’s independence and equal enforcement of the law.

Ben-Gvir has openly defended those actions, arguing they reflect the mandate he received from voters. “Gali Baharav-Miara wants to take your voice from you,” he said ahead of the hearing. He added, “She says I set policy and change the police — she’s right,” and insisted, “I was elected to govern.” He framed the case as an attempt to override the will of right-wing voters.

The hearing quickly took on broader political significance, with coalition figures rallying behind the minister. Justice Minister Yariv Levin said the proceedings were “contrary to the law” and warned that any ruling would have “no validity,” signaling potential resistance to court intervention.

Judges during the session raised concerns about the implications of political involvement in policing, calling it a potential “danger to democracy.” The court is now expected to decide whether it can compel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to remove Ben-Gvir, a decision that could define the limits of ministerial power and judicial authority in Israel.