West Bank Police Unit Commander Chief Superintendent Avishai Moalem will be permitted to return to service in a different position, following a Monday decision by Israel Police Commissioner Insp.-Gen. Daniel (Danny) Levi, in coordination with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Moalem has been under investigation for bribery, breach of trust, and misuse of police force since December, with no final decision yet reached on his case.

About two weeks ago, Levi met with Moalem’s wife and heard her arguments. He then extended Moalem’s forced leave for a limited period before deciding on Monday evening to reinstate him to another position pending a final decision on his case.

Ben-Gvir welcomed the decision, saying he was “pleased that the police commissioner has decided to reinstate Moalem to service in the Israel Police. He is a respected, highly experienced officer who has dedicated many years to the security of Israeli citizens.”

Ben-Gvir continued: “Cmdr. Moalem suffered persecution at the hands of the Israel Security Agency [Shin Bet]. I believe in his innocence and am certain that he will continue to be promoted in rank, as is fitting for a man who acted with integrity and dedication.”

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir attends a plenum session on the state budget in the assembly hall of the Israeli parliament, December 16, 2024. (credit: CHAIM GOLDBEG/FLASH90)
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir attends a plenum session on the state budget in the assembly hall of the Israeli parliament, December 16, 2024. (credit: CHAIM GOLDBEG/FLASH90)
“Those elements in the Shin Bet who urged him to break the law and harm settlers are the ones who should be removed from their positions, not the officer who refused to do so,” he added.

Ben-Gvir's support for Moalem

In December, Ben-Gvir expressed support for Moalem and dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, The Jerusalem Post previously reported.

“I will not throw Moalem to the dogs,” Ben-Gvir said, according to his aides. “He is an outstanding officer, and I won’t allow the attorney-general or the Defense Ministry to exploit this investigation to harm him.”

Associates of Ben-Gvir said he was determined to ensure a fair and unbiased process for Moalem. “Chief Moalem must receive equal treatment. Minister Ben-Gvir believes this is part of a broader campaign to undermine his ability to lead and destabilize the right-wing government,” an aide said.

Ben-Gvir further emphasized his commitment to fairness. “I stand for justice and equal opportunities. I will not let political agendas or personal vendettas exploit internal police processes,” he said.