Title: Tel Aviv Police Chief Addresses Controversies at Change of Command Ceremony
Subtitle: Outgoing Chief Ami Ashad and Minister of National Security clash over termination controversy
Date: Wednesday, [Insert Date]
Tel Aviv, Israel – In a highly anticipated change of command ceremony today, outgoing Tel Aviv Police Chief Ami Ashad addressed the recent controversies surrounding his termination and his strained relationship with the Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir.
Speaking at the ceremony in the Tel Aviv district, Chief Ashad emphasized the importance of upholding the values of democracy, the police, the Mossad, and justice. “The events that are taking place challenge more than ever the contract between us, to serve the public and protect these values,” Chief Ashad stated.
Chief Ashad also expressed the need for unbiased policing, stating, “We are required here are policemen who do not discriminate between blood and blood, between right and left. In our democracy, everyone is equal – there are no first-class citizens and second-class citizens.”
Reflecting on his career, Chief Ashad spoke proudly about the police force and the values they represent. “The values of the Israel Police are the clauses of our contract with the citizen… and these must continue to be the values of the Israel Police down the road,” Chief Ashad emphasized.
Addressing the challenges faced by the police force, Chief Ashad commended his colleagues for their commitment to protecting the city of Tel Aviv and maintaining public safety. “We must not give up either protecting our democracy or our police force. The events happening on our shift challenge the clauses of our contract with citizens,” he stated.
Following Chief Ashad’s speech, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir took the stage. Despite the recent controversies, Minister Ben Gvir acknowledged Chief Ashad’s years of service and contribution to the police and the public.
In response to Chief Ashad’s speech, Minister Ben Gvir emphasized the need to balance freedom of speech with the prevention of rioting and harassment. He expressed confidence in Chief Ashad’s abilities to act wisely and maintain appropriate balances in the face of these challenges.
The change of command ceremony comes after Chief Ashad’s announcement of his retirement from the police force after over 30 years of service. Demonstrators protesting against the government and legal reform blocked the Ayalon lanes for vehicle traffic during the ceremony.
Chief Ashad made a clear statement directed towards Minister Ben Gvir, accusing him of interfering with operational considerations and calling on officers to uphold values and professionalism. Minister Ben Gvir responded by referring to Chief Ashad’s retirement as proof of a political superintendent serving in the police force and wished him success in his future political endeavors.
Despite the controversies and challenges faced, Chief Ashad remained resolute in his commitment to maintaining peace, order, and justice, guided by the law and rules of morality. The change of command ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Tel Aviv Police District, as a new commander takes charge and continues the mission of upholding public safety and the values of the Israel Police.