Prison Service Promotes Commander Amid Police Appointment Disputes

The Israel Prison Service (IPS) is continuing to fill its senior command positions, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir approving the appointment of Major General Miki Bar Yehuda as commander of the Nachshon unit and promoting him to the rank of Sub-Commissioner. Bar Yehuda, currently commanding the elite Matzudah unit, has extensive operational experience, having previously served in the counter-terrorism Yamam unit, the coastal district's central unit, and the police's tactical unit.

This appointment highlights a growing disparity between the Prison Service and the Israel Police, both of which fall under the Ministry of National Security. While the IPS is moving forward with leadership appointments based on professional recommendations, the police are embroiled in a legal dispute over senior appointments, particularly concerning the involvement of the Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara.

The IPS appointment was made following a recommendation from IPS Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner Kobi Yaacobi, which Minister Ben-Gvir subsequently approved. The Prison Service emphasizes Bar Yehuda's significant operational background as a key factor in his selection for the Nachshon unit command.

The contrast in appointment processes is stark: the IPS is proceeding with filling key roles based on command recommendations, while the police face limitations and legal scrutiny from the Attorney General's office regarding their own promotion procedures. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges within the police force concerning senior personnel decisions.