Chief Justice Yitzchak Amit suggested Tuesday that Democrats leader Yair Golan withdraw his High Court petition against the Shin Bet over his security arrangements, following a closed hearing with a Shin Bet representative.
Amit told Golan in the hearing that the issue he raised was significant and that the justices shared his concerns. He addressed the question of manpower and the instructions passed to police, saying: "In terms of manpower, we understand that the Service directs and will direct the police according to the information you provide." He added that the Shin Bet would be able to assist police at certain events and that it maintains ongoing activity in the area of personal security.
Amit then explained why the court would not intervene in the work of the professional bodies: "We have a professional body who are experts in this matter, and we will not intervene." At the end of his remarks, he suggested Golan withdraw the petition.
The suggestion came after a one-sided hearing with the Shin Bet representative. The details released from the hearing did not specify what was discussed beyond Amit's remarks on manpower, police instructions and possible assistance at certain events. It was also not disclosed whether Golan accepted the suggestion or what his decision would be regarding the continuation of the proceedings.
