Police Spokesperson Chief Under Investigation Set for Promotion as Predecessor Sought for Return

Deputy Superintendent Lior Abudrahm, who was questioned as part of an investigation into associates of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, is expected to be promoted to a senior position elsewhere within the Israel Police. The move comes as the force simultaneously conducts advanced talks with former police spokesperson Eli Levy about returning to lead the police communications division.

Abudrahm has served as head of the police’s public relations department, a role that carries significant responsibility for managing the force’s media relations and public communications during a period of considerable political tension in Israel. His promotion suggests the police leadership believes he should be repositioned despite the ongoing inquiry into his connections.

The police have identified Eli Levy as their preferred candidate to replace Abudrahm. Levy, who previously held the spokesperson role, is being actively courted to return to the position. Such appointments are typically significant within Israeli law enforcement, as the police spokesperson serves as the public face of the organisation during major incidents and controversies.

The timing of these moves reflects the police’s attempts to manage its institutional reputation whilst navigating the investigation into Ben Gvir’s associates. The National Security Minister has faced several controversies since taking office, and any inquiry touching on his circle carries political sensitivity for the police force.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.