The Israel Prison Service (Shabass) is pushing to gain authority outside of prisons, allowing guards to take on responsibilities that are traditionally held by police officers. This initiative aims to enhance the operational capabilities of prison guards and provide them with the means to 'break the routine'. Recently, Shabass has approached the police regarding this matter but has met resistance, particularly from Police Commissioner Dani Levi, who has publicly opposed the move.

The rationale provided by Shabass for advancing this initiative includes a desire to assist the police, particularly in combatting crime within the Arab community. The situation highlights an ongoing conflict between the prison service and the police, notably as tensions between Commissioner Levi and Shabass Commissioner Kobi Yaakov have escalated to a significant rift. The implications of this proposed change could lead to a redefined relationship between the two entities, potentially resulting in shared responsibilities and collaborative efforts in managing crime.

This situation underscores the broader challenges faced in addressing crime in Israel, particularly with respect to the Arab population. As the Prison Service looks to enhance its role, the opposition from law enforcement leadership reflects concerns about overstepping boundaries and the mission creep of prison guards into roles that may require different training and authority. How this proposal unfolds may significantly impact law enforcement strategies and the balance of power between Israel's correctional and policing entities.