Israel’s Next Chief of Police: IDF Brigadier General Gal Hirsch

Israel’s Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan has announced this evening the surprising appointment of Brigadier General Gal Hirsch as Commissioner of the Israeli Police. Hirsch will replace Yohanan Danino who completed his term and served as Police Commissioner during one of the most turbulent eras the Police has known.

Erdan explained his decision: “Gal Hirsch is a respected and exemplary officer that spearheaded reforms in every division in which he served. I am convinced that Gal is the most suitable candidate to help lead the reforms that the Police needs and to help strengthen the public's trust in the Police."

“I am very excited!” Hirsch wrote on his Facebook page. “The men and women of the Israel Police are true fighters that have for many years been my brothers and sisters; brothers in arms and partners in many missions. I have deep appreciation and love for them. I am happy with the trust shown in me and await the completion of the appointment process."   

A talented and intelligent officer

Hirsch who is married with three daughters was born in 1964 and joined the paratroop forces in 1982. He served in the IDF elite Paratroopers Brigade for two years before enlisting in IDF Officers' School from which he graduated with distinction. Among other roles, Hirsch commanded Paratroopers Brigade 202 as well as Shaldag – the Air Forces’ elite Commando Unit. He also served as commander of the Binyamin region and as the Chief of the IDF’s officers' school – Bahad 1. Hirsch received several awards during his IDF service.

Hirsch left the military amid controversy over the kidnapping of the soldiers Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev, which occurred during the time he has served as commander of the Galilee Brigade in territory within the brigade’s jurisdiction.

During his service, Hirsch was severely injured in his shoulder as a result of stone throwing at his car and went through a long rehabilitation process. Hirsch currently heads the Institute for Future Leadership in Israel and is CEO of the Defensive-Shield Holdings Company.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also pleased with Erdan’s choice and stated: “Hirsch is an esteemed fighter and general who served in a string of commanding positions in the IDF and led his people to battle and to many operations with courage and creativity,” Netanyahu stressed. “As the intended Police Chief, he will march the Police forward in light of the challenges it is facing and while continually striving to increase the personal security of the citizens of Israel and to strengthen the rule of law.”