Four generations of Arab police officers: ‘We can’t station cars outside every house’

A Muslim family spanning four generations has made a remarkable commitment to Israeli policing, with members serving continuously since 1943. Salim Safia first joined the Mandate police force over 80 years ago, establishing a legacy that his son Ahmad continued through 30 years of service, followed by grandson Adham and granddaughter Karin, who is now a serving police officer. Her younger sister is set to join the force, making it a striking example of institutional loyalty within the Arab community in Israel.

In an interview about their decision to serve, the family has spoken candidly about the challenges facing Arab society and the limits of policing alone in addressing them. They emphasise that while law enforcement has a vital role, structural change requires far broader intervention. “You can’t station a police car outside every house,” they argue, pointing to the fundamental issue that crime prevention cannot rely solely on reactive policing.

The family’s perspective reflects a deeper frustration with how security is approached in Arab communities. They stress that proper education and family values must form the foundation of any effort to reduce crime. “If education in the home doesn’t start correctly, the police can’t replace everyone who doesn’t function properly,” they explain, highlighting the gap between what uniforms can achieve and what society itself must provide.

Their willingness to remain in service despite these systemic challenges underscores a commitment to change from within. The family’s multi-generational presence in policing represents both a personal choice and a statement about Arab participation in Israeli institutions, even as they acknowledge the profound limitations officers face when tackling crime without addressing its root causes in education and family structure.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.