In first, former police commissioner to head Israeli unit spearheading gaza aid

Israel named retired Police Commissioner Yoram Halevy to lead COGAT, the army unit managing humanitarian aid in Gaza and coordination with the Palestinian Authority and global organizations.

Israel tapped retired Police Commissioner Yoram Halevi as the army’s new point man for humanitarian aid in Gaza, appointing him head of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the Defense Ministry announced Sunday night.

The appointment marks the first time a former senior police officer will lead the Israel Defense Forces unit responsible for overseeing civilian affairs in Judea, Samaria, and Gaza. Halevi will replace Maj. Gen. Ghassan Alian, who has served in the role for the past four years.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said the choice came after “careful consideration” of several candidates.

“Yoram Halevi has extensive experience from the wide range of positions he fulfilled with great distinction in the Israel Police, including as commander of the Jerusalem District,” Katz said. “He is well acquainted with the Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria and with the Palestinian matter, and I am convinced he will fulfill the position in the best possible way.”

COGAT has played a central role in implementing Israel’s humanitarian aid policies in Gaza during the ongoing war. The position also involves managing sensitive coordination with the Palestinian Authority and international organizations.

Major General

Halevi, 61, rose through the ranks of the Israel Police, serving as commander of the elite Yamam counterterror unit, head of the Border Police, chief of the Southern District, and ultimately Jerusalem District commander. He will be granted the military rank of Major General and join the IDF General Staff.

Halevi holds degrees in political science and education. His son, Chief Inspector Yitev Lev Halevi, a Yamam officer, was killed in combat during the current conflict.

Approximately 1,200 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas’s attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 48 remaining hostages, about 20 are believed to be alive.