Full Breakdown
Decline in Arab Recruitment to Israel Police Amid Ben-Gvir Tenure
8/30/2026, 2:50:54 AM
Core Event: Recruitment Trends 2022-2026
Police and Ministry of National Security data show that overall recruitment to the Israel Police has risen each year, while enlistment of Arab citizens (Muslims, Bedouins and Arab Christians) has fallen sharply since National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir assumed office in 2022. New officers numbered 2,109 in 2022, 2,778 in 2023, 3,814 in 2024, and 3,294 in 2025. The first half of 2026 saw 2,276 recruits. In contrast, Arab-origin recruits dropped from 135 Muslims, six Bedouins and 48 Arab Christians in 2022 to just 64 Muslims, two Bedouins and seven Arab Christians in early 2026.
Policy Shift and Recruitment Standards
Before Ben-Gvir’s appointment, an affirmative-action policy permitted Arab candidates to be accepted despite a DAPAR (military aptitude) score below the standard threshold of 4 out of 9 or limited Hebrew proficiency. Ministry officials say the policy was abolished after Ben-Gvir took charge, and a directive now requires all candidates to meet the same minimum standards, including the DAPAR score and Hebrew knowledge.
Data Overview
In 2025 the police force comprised 36,856 officers, with 3,294 new hires; only 96 were Muslims, two Bedouins and 12 Arab Christians—about 0.26 % of recruits, roughly 70 times lower than the Arab sector’s share of Israel’s population (over 21 %). The 2022-2024 figures show a similar pattern, with Arab-origin recruits never exceeding 3 % of total intake.
Official Response
Ben-Gvir’s office acknowledged the figures, stating that criticism would continue but the ministry would persist in its recruitment efforts, emphasizing a focus on security and merit-based standards.
Implications for Representation and Community Relations
The steep decline highlights a growing underrepresentation of a demographic that makes up more than one-fifth of the population. Analysts note that the trend coincides with rising violence in Arab communities, budget reallocations away from Arab sectors, and heightened societal polarization as elections approach. The disparity raises questions about integration, trust in state institutions, and the long-term impact on public safety in mixed-population areas.
