Israeli Transport Ministry Security Chief Accused of Unapproved Second Job

The head of the security department at Israel's Ministry of Transport, Evri Cohen, allegedly worked a paid second job since 2018 without the required permit, Haaretz newspaper reported. Cohen had previously stated he received approval for additional work when he took office. Approximately eight months ago, the ministry received an anonymous tip about Cohen's secondary employment. An initial review indicated the official lacked the necessary permit, and he was instructed to cease any work unrelated to his ministry role. However, the ministry has not initiated disciplinary proceedings against him.

Cohen simultaneously works for the "Ofek" aviation security system, a government entity tasked by the Shin Bet to secure Israeli airlines abroad, for which he receives separate compensation. Following the newspaper's revelations, Cohen claimed he had received approval from the ministry's management in 2018. However, Haaretz spoke with former Director-General Karen Turner and other relevant officials from that year, who denied granting such approval. Cohen also failed to provide the newspaper with a copy of the permit he claimed to have obtained.

The Ministry of Transport confirmed that its employees require prior authorization from the Civil Service Commissioner for secondary employment. The ministry stated it had not received a permit request from Cohen and therefore had not issued one. This issue arises amid growing criticism of the vetting process for foreign flight crews arriving in Israel. Last week, the ministry admitted it relies on airlines' statements regarding crew members rather than conducting its own verification of passenger and crew lists.