Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir have made the unusual move of appointing retired police commissioner Yoram Halevy as the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, a key role overseeing civilian and security affairs in the West Bank.
Katz said he interviewed several candidates for the position and after careful consideration decided on Halevy.
Halevy has held a series of senior positions in the Israel Police, including commander of the Yamam counterterrorism unit, commander of Lahav 433, commander of the Border Police and commander of the Southern and Jerusalem districts. Katz said these roles prepare him well for the challenges of his new position.
Halevy will be granted the rank of major general and will join the IDF General Staff. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in education.
Halevy’s son, Lt. Yitav Lev Halevy, served as a combat officer in the Yamam unit and was killed during the war in Gaza.
Katz said, “Yoram Halevy brings extensive experience from his many distinguished roles in the Israel Police, including as commander of the Jerusalem district. He is deeply familiar with the Jewish settlements in the West Bank and the Palestinian issue, and I am confident he will fulfill the role to the highest standard.”