Central District Commander Amir Cohen Announces Retirement After 38 Years
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Superintendent Amir Cohen, commander of the Central District and former Border Police chief, announced his retirement from the Israel Police after 38 years of service. Cohen was a key figure on October 7th, issuing a critical operational order and fighting on the front lines, where he was wounded. In his final role as Central District commander, he is credited with significant reductions in crime rates. Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir lauded Cohen as a hero of October 7th and praised his dedication.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Superintendent Amir Cohen is retiring from the Israel Police after 38 years of service.
- Cohen commanded the Southern District on October 7th and issued a key operational order.
- He was wounded while fighting terrorists on October 7th and refused medical evacuation.
- As Central District commander, Cohen oversaw significant drops in crime rates.
- Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir called Cohen a hero of October 7th.
Central District Commander Superintendent Amir Cohen has informed the Police Commissioner of his intention to end his service in the Israel Police after 38 years. In August 2023, he was appointed commander of the Southern District, just two months before the October 7th Hamas attack.
On the morning of October 7th, Cohen issued the "Operation "Flesh and Blood"" (פרש פלשת) order at 6:41 AM as thousands of terrorists infiltrated Israel. He commanded forces in the Southern District during the initial defense against the attack, fighting in dozens of locations. During approximately 50 consecutive hours of combat, Cohen himself engaged terrorists, was wounded, and refused medical evacuation to continue leading his troops. 58 police officers and soldiers were killed and hundreds wounded that day.
Following his tenure as Southern District commander, Cohen was appointed commander of the Central District. In this role, he implemented an offensive operational approach, establishing the "Eyal" region. During his command, the district saw significant decreases in crime, including a 13% drop in property offenses, a 21% decrease in vehicle thefts, a 67% reduction in murder cases, and a 72% decrease in murder victims within the Arab community. Fatal road accidents also decreased by 36%, and arrest rates for murder cases rose.
Upon announcing his retirement, Cohen stated, "This is our generation, and it is our turn to fight for our home. I was privileged to lead the Maccabees of our generation, the policewomen and policemen of the Israel Police, in the battles that prevented the spread of the massacre. Until my last day, I will carry the fallen in my heart, the wounded in body and soul, and I will be grateful for the privilege of serving the country in the uniform of the Israel Police."
Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir responded to Cohen's retirement, calling him "one of the heroes of October 7th." Ben-Gvir praised Cohen's dedication to protecting Israeli citizens throughout his 38 years of service and expressed his appreciation for Cohen's work, wishing him success in his future endeavors.
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