Israeli Police Senior Staff Convene for Memorial Day Honoring Yitzhak Rabin

The senior command staff of the Israel Police convened for an annual seminar at the Yitzhak Rabin Center, led by Commissioner Dany Levy and attended by Dalia Rabin, head of the Rabin Center, along with other commanders and officers. The event, organized by the Police's Chief Lieberman and the Training Division, focused on the police's role in a democratic society, the diversity of Israeli society, and the importance of partnership and solidarity in facing challenges and disagreements. Participants also learned about the heroism of Yamam (Special Operations Unit) fighters during Operation "Golden Hand" to rescue hostages Fernando and Luis.

Dalia Rabin emphasized the bravery of police officers on October 7 and their ongoing efforts to maintain security in a fractured society, stating, "Your systematic work is critical to the resilience of Israeli society. It is important to do it without fear while fighting tenaciously to internalize the lessons of the past." Commissioner Levy highlighted Rabin's legacy as a fighter, IDF Chief of Staff, and Prime Minister dedicated to Israel's security and peace. He noted that Rabin approved initial steps to implement conclusions from the Horv Committee after the 1974 Ma'alot disaster, which eventually led to the establishment of the Yamam unit 50 years later.

Levy also discussed the "Look to Revival" process, based on comprehensive organizational learning and debriefings, stressing the need to translate these lessons into changes in training, command, and inter-force cooperation. He affirmed the police's responsibility to adequately prepare officers for dangerous situations, stating, "When we send an officer into danger, our responsibility goes with him. It is in the training he received, the equipment in his hands, and the assistance that will come to his aid." He further addressed the power of words and the impact of political disputes turning into violence, recalling Rabin's words that "in a democracy, there can be disagreements, but the decision will be in democratic elections." Levy pledged that the police would protect freedom of expression and protest, act decisively against violence and incitement, and ensure fair and free elections, operating professionally and impartially.

The police chief urged commanders to instill this commitment in all officers, emphasizing the importance of tolerance, listening, and respecting differing opinions, even during disagreements. He stated that the Israel Police prioritizes promoting respectful discourse and strengthening mutual responsibility and respect as the foundation for a shared democratic society, ensuring the public's right to choose its representatives.