Retired Police General Calls for Integrated Approach to Crime Fighting
Retired Major General Zohar Dvir, former deputy commissioner of police and commander of elite units, argues that Israel's police force, while crucial, cannot single-handedly combat rising crime and terrorism. In a podcast interview, Dvir likened the police to an "emergency room for Israeli society," explaining that societal failures in education, welfare, economics, and inter-sectoral tensions ultimately manifest as crime and violence, overwhelming the police.
Dvir highlighted a critical lack of synchronization between the police, the prosecution, the courts, and government ministries. He described how officers invest significant time and resources into investigations, only to see offenders receive lenient sentences and quickly return to their communities, leading to frustration among police and a perception of impunity among criminals. He also noted the immense burden on the police, who must simultaneously manage protests, serious crime, extortion, terrorism, and routine security.
To address these issues, Dvir proposed a multi-pronged strategy. First, he advocated for a collaborative approach, similar to efforts against crime in the Arab community, where police work alongside tax authorities, the Ministry of Agriculture, and other agencies. This integrated model, he explained, targets not just weapons but also finances and assets, dismantling the "not my problem" mentality.
Second, Dvir supported significant minimum sentences, particularly for illegal weapons possession, and more determined enforcement against protection rackets and black market capital. Crucially, he stressed the need for long-term, multi-year work plans insulated from political shifts, emphasizing that internal security should be managed by professionals with clear, long-term objectives.
Finally, Dvir suggested expanding national service to include more young Haredi and Arab Israelis in essential sectors like healthcare, medicine, and public services. He proposed a tiered system where greater contribution and risk yield greater state benefits. For the Haredi community, he suggested a model similar to elite athletes, allowing a small number of Torah scholars to continue their studies while integrating the rest into service, employment, and core curriculum studies.
Despite his criticisms, Dvir expressed chronic optimism, drawing hope from the younger generation and civil society's response to the October 7th events. He views Israel's diversity as a source of strength, comparing Israeli society to an alloy where the mixture is stronger than its individual components. He believes that by reducing hatred, polarization, and fake news, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility, Israel can overcome its challenges.
