Today, the swearing-in ceremony for the Commander of the Jerusalem District of the Israel Police was held, in the presence of the Minister of National Security, MK itamar ben-gvir, the Inspector General of the Israel Police, Commissioner Danny Levy, the Mayor of Jerusalem, Mr. Moshe Lion, the incoming District Commander, Superintendent Absalom Peled, the Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, partners from security, emergency, and rescue bodies, heads of local councils, representatives of the National Staff Forum of the Israel Police, officers and police officers of the Jerusalem District, additional guests, and family members.
The Jerusalem District of the Israel Police is responsible for security and public order in the capital city of Jerusalem and throughout the Jerusalem hills region, including the city of beit shemesh, and the communities and councils of Mevaseret Zion, Abu Ghosh, Kiryat Ye’arim, Har Adar, Givat Ze’ev, Givon, and Mateh Yehuda. Over a million residents, Jews, Muslims, and Christians, live in the district, coexisting in a unique human fabric.
The district faces a complex set of challenges, including: maintaining stability and the delicate balance in the Old City and the holy sites of the three religions, dealing with terror threats and security incidents, securing the state’s central government institutions, and continuously dealing with the characteristics of a large city, various types of crime, public disturbances, and numerous and diverse protests.
All of these require the Jerusalem District to operate with professionalism, determination, and sensitivity, with a deep commitment to the security of residents and the upholding of the rule of law.
The outgoing District Commander, Superintendent Amir Arzani, held a variety of key positions throughout his years of service in the Israel Police, and especially in the Jerusalem District: commander of various stations, head of operations, deputy district commander, and Jerusalem District Commander. At every stage of his career, he demonstrated professionalism, responsibility, and dedication. As one who grew up in the district and carries Jerusalem in his heart, he led the district with confidence and achieved significant accomplishments, combining operational determination with human sensitivity. His commitment to the residents, to the policewomen and policemen, and to the entire Israel Police, has left a strong, professional district ready for future challenges.
The incoming Commander of the Jerusalem District, Superintendent Abshi Peled, said at the ceremony: “The significance of commanding the Jerusalem District requires me and the officers and police officers of the district to maintain sovereignty and governance firmly and uncompromisingly, to strengthen deterrence against criminals, and to increase the security and sense of security of Jerusalem’s residents and those who enter its gates. I am aware of the weight of responsibility placed upon me and am ready to bear it with a sense of faith and mission. The Jerusalem District is strong and ready for any task it will be called upon to perform and will prevail in every arena to which it is summoned.”
Police Commissioner, Superintendent Danny Levy, said at the ceremony: “Dear Abshi, today you are taking command of the Jerusalem District, and there is no one more worthy and suitable than you. In the Jerusalem District, more than anywhere else, the public’s trust in the police, its professionalism, and its ability to act with determination and responsibility are tested daily.
“The Israel Police is facing a challenging period, fraught with missions and threats, but also with a mission, meaning, and responsibility. I believe and am confident that in your loyal hands, you will continue to lead the district to impressive successes and achievements. Your extensive experience, skills, and abilities will enable you to successfully cope with the many tasks and to utilize the excellent human resources at your disposal. We will continue to stand by your side and work for you, so that you can perform your duties in the best possible way.
“On this occasion, I wish to express my appreciation and thanks to the police officers, combatants, and commanders of the Jerusalem District for their strenuous efforts, determination, dedication, and professionalism. I will not conclude without wishing for the return of our last captive from Hamas captivity, the hero of Israel, Ran Guili.”
The Minister of National Security, MK Itamar Ben-Gvir, said at the ceremony: “Today we are marking the entry of Superintendent Absalom Peled into the role of Commander of the Jerusalem District – one of the most complex, sensitive, and influential positions in the internal security system of the State of Israel. Jerusalem is more than just a district: it is the heart of the nation, a city of history, faith, identity, and emotion.
“Managing this district requires an excellent and professional officer, with command seniority and rich experience in police work, and this is exactly what Superintendent Abshi Peled brings with him from the many roles he has held over the years, along with a clear, value-based, and uncompromising national and Zionist worldview.
“I am confident that he will lead the district with confidence, discretion, and determination, and will continue to strengthen the security of Jerusalem and its residents, and to preserve the sovereignty of the State of Israel in all parts of the city.”
The incoming Commander of the Jerusalem District, Superintendent Absalom Peled (64), is married, has three children, and lives in Moshav Zacharia. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master’s degree in Jewish Studies. In his recent roles, he served as Deputy Commissioner and Head of the Training Division. Superintendent Peled also served as Acting Commissioner for several months.