Ben-Gvir cancels US trip to UN police summit after legal complaints, says HRF

‘Israeli’ far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir canceled his scheduled trip to New York to attend the United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit, originally set for July 7-8..

Ben-Gvir was expected to lead a delegation from ‘Israel's’ National Security Ministry to the international gathering.

The cancellation follows legal complaints filed by the Belgium-based Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) and the New York-based Center for Constitutional Rights, according to a statement by the HRF.

The groups submitted a complaint to the US Department of Justice and a letter to New York Attorney General Letitia James, urging investigations into Ben-Gvir's alleged role in policies involving torture, abuse, and violations affecting Palestinian detainees, including some New York residents.

HRF described the reported cancellation as a "significant victory," attributing it to their legal actions combined with grassroots mobilization by groups such as the Palestinian Youth Movement.

The organization highlighted that the move signals diminishing impunity for ‘Israeli’ officials facing international scrutiny over prison policies.

Hebrew media outlets, including Haaretz and the Jerusalem Post, reported that ministry sources confirmed the decision not to send a delegation, citing planned protests and security concerns.

However, Ben-Gvir's office has not officially confirmed that legal pressure directly caused the cancellation.

This development marks the second time in recent weeks that Ben-Gvir has aborted a US visit.

Earlier in June 2026, he reportedly canceled a private trip due to visa complications linked to his past convictions.

Critics of Ben-Gvir, a polarizing figure known for his hardline positions on security and Palestinian issues, have long accused him of exacerbating tensions through policies in ‘Israeli’ detention facilities.