Central District Police Chief Amir Cohen Announces Retirement After 38 Years

During that meeting, Cohen, who was the Southern District commander at the time of the attacks, expressed dissatisfaction with how the internal reviews were being presented. Commissioner Levy rebuked him, asserting that the police would present the truth. The internal debriefings, which began in May, have required senior command staff to sign confidentiality agreements to prevent leaks before the families of fallen officers are briefed.

Cohen is widely recognized for his actions on October 7, when he issued the "Peresh Pleshet" mobilization order at 6:41 AM and personally led forces in combat for 50 consecutive hours. He was wounded by gunfire and shrapnel during the battle at the Sderot police station but refused medical evacuation to continue commanding. For his leadership, he was selected to light a torch at Israel's 76th Independence Day ceremony.

Following his resignation, Cohen is expected to run for the position of Police Commissioner from outside the force. Sources close to him indicate that if offered the top job, he would demand a significant budget increase, additional personnel, and regular participation in Security Cabinet discussions alongside the heads of the Shin Bet and Mossad.