Top Israeli Police Commander Resigns, Eyes Top Job

Amir Cohen, the Commander of the Central District of the Israel Police, announced on Thursday his decision to resign from the force after 38 years of service. Cohen, however, intends to pursue the position of the next Police Commissioner from outside the organization. He began his service in the Border Police in 1988 and has held various senior command positions. Cohen was appointed commander of the Border Police in February 2021, moved to command the Southern District in 2023, and was slated to take command of the Central District in November 2025, a role he currently holds.

One of the significant events during his tenure occurred on October 7, 2023, when he served as Southern District commander during the Hamas attack. At 6:41 AM, Cohen issued the "Peresh Pleshet" order to mobilize forces in response to infiltrations and a multi-front incident. He later participated in the battle for the Sderot police station, where he was injured by shrapnel in his eye and two bullets in his back. Despite his injuries, he continued to command forces, responded to the hostage situation in Ofakim, and subsequently ordered the destruction of the police station where terrorists had barricaded themselves.

Following his actions on October 7, Cohen was chosen to light a torch at Israel's 76th Independence Day ceremony. Now, after 38 years, Cohen is preparing to leave the police but plans to run for Police Commissioner as an external candidate. The date of his departure from the Central District command and his successor have not yet been announced.