Jerusalem, 29 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The search committee for the director of the Israel Authority for Prevention of violence, Alcohol and Drug Abuse has unanimously selected Judge Chen Avital as the next director of the Authority. Avital until recently served as the president of the community courts in Israel. The appointment will be submitted for government approval.
In the past, Avital served as a judge and president of the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court, as a juvenile judge for years, during which he dealt with and acted in the field of rehabilitation and prevention. Among his other senior administrative skills, Avital has extensive experience in relations and work with many government ministries, various local authorities, the Israel Police, the Prison Service, the third sector, and more.
The Israel National Authority for Community Safety implements the Ministry of National Security’s objectives and promotes the Ministry’s ability to deal with threats to public safety and quality of life. The Authority provides municipalities with support in preventing and combating crime, violence, alcohol and drug abuse, by creating infrastructures and mechanisms at the community level, and by providing resources to help the community deal with these issues.