Reserve Colonel Ofir Levi Appointed Deputy Head of Israel’s National Security Council

The Israeli government approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s nomination of Reserve Colonel (Res.) Ofir Levi as the new deputy head of the National Security Council (NSC) on Tuesday. The appointment, recommended by NSC head Shmuel Ben-Ezra, replaces Gil Reich, who recently completed his term. Levi’s tenure is set for five years, with possible extensions up to a maximum of ten years. This appointment is part of a series of senior security and diplomatic appointments made by Netanyahu in recent months.

Levi brings extensive military and security experience, having served in several senior roles in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). His positions included Head of Armored Corps Doctrine, Commander of Reserve Brigade 679, and Deputy Commander of the 210th Golan Regional Brigade, reflecting deep familiarity with northern Israel’s security challenges. After leaving the IDF, he worked as a border defense consultant for Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, one of Israel’s leading defense companies. This combined operational and industry experience is expected to benefit his new role at the NSC.

Academically, Levi holds a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences with a focus on organizational consulting from Ariel University and a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Haifa. His blend of academic knowledge and practical military experience is anticipated to provide unique capabilities in managing complex national security issues.

Levi’s appointment complements other recent high-profile security appointments by Netanyahu, including Roman Gofman as Mossad chief and attorney Yorai Metzloavi as head of the National Headquarters for Economic Warfare Against Terrorism. The NSC plays a central role in shaping Israel’s security and foreign policy, and the deputy head position is crucial for coordinating between various military and political bodies. Levi’s selection underscores a strategic emphasis on combining operational expertise with broad strategic insight within the council.