Gov’t approves Smotrich ally Israel Malachi as Finance Ministry director-general

The Israeli government has officially sanctioned the appointment of Israel Malachi as the director-general of the Finance Ministry, a move that places a trusted ally of Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich at the helm of a crucial economic body. Malachi, who has served as deputy director-general for the past three and a half years, brings a wealth of experience, including his previous role as treasurer for the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council, which oversees West Bank settlements. His familiarity with complex governmental processes and his leadership in rehabilitation efforts for communities along the Gaza border are highlighted by the ministry as key qualifications.

Minister Smotrich lauded Malachi as a "top-tier professional" whose deep understanding of the ministry's operations will be instrumental in its success. This appointment follows the resignation of Ilan Rom in March after the passage of the 2026 state budget, which saw significant increases in defense and haredi education funding, itself a point of contention. Malachi's extensive background in government, local government, and the nonprofit sector, along with his deep familiarity with parliamentary procedures, are presented as assets that will ensure the ministry functions with professionalism and dedication for the benefit of the State of Israel and its citizens.

“

His familiarity with the ministry’s work will contribute to the work of the Finance Ministry as a whole. Together with the excellent management team at the ministry, he will know how to lead the work with professionalism and dedication for the success of the State of Israel and its citizens.

However, the selection process has not been without its critics. Noga Kanian, a member of the Appointments Committee, voted against Malachi's candidacy, citing concerns that Smotrich failed to ensure adequate representation for women in senior positions. Kanian also questioned whether Malachi possessed unique qualifications for the role, suggesting that the choice may have leaned more on personal loyalty to Smotrich than on objective professional merit. These concerns echo similar reservations raised during the recent appointment of Doron Cohen as civil service commissioner, highlighting an ongoing debate about equitable administrative standards and gender representation within Israel's governmental appointments.

“

Smotrich did not meet the obligation to work toward adequate representation for women and claimed that Malachi does not possess any special qualifications required for the position. Kanian also reportedly noted that the choice appeared to rely primarily on personal trust and proximity to Smotrich, rather than professional merit.