Ex-Commander Avishai Moalem Tapped as Tiberias CEO Amid Ongoing Investigation

Avishai Moalem, a retired Superintendent and former commander of the Judea and Samaria District's Central Unit, is slated to be appointed as the new Director-General of the Tiberias Municipality. This significant appointment comes while Moalem remains under investigation by the Police Investigations Department (PID) concerning his alleged ties to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Moalem is expected to replace the outgoing Director-General, Shimon Finian, who departed due to disagreements with Mayor Yossi Neve. For Moalem, a Tiberias native, this move represents a personal homecoming after an extensive career in the Israel Police's investigation and intelligence divisions.

The investigation, which began in late 2024, centers on suspicions that Moalem maintained an improper direct channel with Minister Ben-Gvir. Allegations include that Moalem refrained from enforcing regulations and arresting far-right activists, contrary to Shin Bet demands, and shared classified information with the minister's office in anticipation of a promotion to Assistant Commissioner.

Moalem has vehemently denied all accusations, strongly criticizing the PID and Shin Bet, claiming he was framed. Minister Ben-Gvir publicly supported Moalem, calling him a "heroic and outstanding officer."

Despite the ongoing investigation and the pending decision on whether to file charges, Moalem is proceeding towards the Director-General position in Tiberias.