Top Israeli Police Commander Amir Cohen Announces Retirement
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Superintendent Amir Cohen, Commander of the Central District and a hero of the October 7th attacks, announced his retirement from the Israel Police on Thursday after nearly 40 years of service. His departure follows reported tensions with police leadership and disagreements with Inspector General Dani Levy. Cohen was recognized for his critical role and bravery during the October 7th Hamas assault, where he was wounded but continued to command forces. He is speculated to be considering a future run for Inspector General.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Central District Commander Amir Cohen, an October 7th hero, announced his retirement from the Israel Police.
- Cohen's decision follows reported tensions with Inspector General Dani Levy and the Ministry of National Security.
- He is credited with activating a key emergency order on October 7th, saving many lives.
- Cohen was wounded in battle on October 7th and later chosen to light an Independence Day torch.
- Speculation suggests Cohen may be considering a future bid for the Inspector General position.
Superintendent Amir Cohen, Commander of the Central District and a recognized hero of the October 7th Hamas attacks, announced his retirement from the Israel Police on Thursday. His departure marks the end of a nearly four-decade career and comes amid reported tensions within the police leadership and disagreements with Inspector General Dani Levy.
Cohen, who was commander of the Southern District just weeks before the October 7th attack, is credited with making a critical decision that morning. He activated the "Peresh Pleshet" emergency order, mobilizing all police forces and Border Police (Magav) units to engage in intense defensive battles against the invading terrorists. He personally commanded forces on the front lines in Sderot and Ofakim for hours, sustaining shrapnel and bullet wounds but continuing to direct operations until the terrorists were neutralized.
His actions on October 7th, during which dozens of officers were killed, earned him a reputation as a symbol of police heroism during the war. He was subsequently chosen to light a torch at the 76th Independence Day ceremony. Cohen previously commanded the Border Police, where he led operations against organized crime and nationalistic terror, before moving to the Central District in late 2025.
Sources close to Cohen suggest his resignation was not unexpected, stemming from professional and personal conflicts with the current Inspector General and the responsible minister, leading to a feeling of exhaustion. Despite the internal turmoil his exit causes, some speculate he may be taking time off with the intention of potentially running for Inspector General in the future.
Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir acknowledged Cohen's retirement, praising him as a hero of October 7th who was wounded in battle. Ben-Gvir stated that Cohen's commitment to protecting Israeli citizens was evident throughout his 38 years of service and expressed his appreciation and best wishes for Cohen's future endeavors.
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