For the first time in the history of the Knesset Guard: A Druze officer will serve in the parliament building

A historic milestone in the Knesset building: Ali Shami, 48, who has served in the Knesset Guard for approximately 25 years, has won the tender for the position of head of the permits department. This role will lead him to attend the Israel Police officer training course. Upon completing the course and receiving his commission, Shami is set to become the first Druze officer in the history of the Knesset Guard.

Shami joined the Knesset Guard in 2001 and has since held a series of roles within the parliament's security system. He began his career as a security guard in the external unit, where he served for about three years. He later moved to the intervention force, serving for 15 years, followed by six years in the screening department. In recent years, he has been a key member of the permits and information reliability department.

Throughout his tenure, Shami has gained extensive professional experience and deep familiarity with the parliament's security operations. In his current role as documentation and communication coordinator, he manages operational changes, staff absences, and leads continuous improvement processes.

As the new head of the permits department, Shami will be responsible for the department's ongoing activities and team leadership. He will report to the commander of the permits and information reliability department and will serve as his deputy in his absence, exercising full authority associated with the position.

His responsibilities will include professional guidance and staff support, task supervision, representing the department in management forums, and liaising with external bodies. Additionally, he will serve as the department's security officer regarding permit and authorization procedures.

His scope of work also includes managing information systems, coordinating with technological service providers, implementing new solutions, handling freedom of information requests, and overseeing permit documentation while maintaining strict confidentiality and data integrity.

Knesset Officer, Nitzav Yuval Chen, welcomed the selection: "Ali is an excellent example of a Knesset Guard member who has performed his duties with dedication and professionalism for years. His selection is a recognition of his professional path and the trust we place in him. Becoming the first Druze officer in the Knesset Guard is a significant personal achievement and a moment of pride for the entire Guard."

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana congratulated Shami: "Ali's story is one of dedication, perseverance, and service to the State of Israel. I have known Ali since before I became a member of the Knesset, and he has always welcomed visitors with a friendly face. This appointment is another expression of the deep partnership between the Druze community and the State of Israel, and their tremendous contribution to our national security."

For Shami, this appointment symbolizes the long journey he has taken since entering the Knesset gates as a young guard. He is now embarking on the next stage of his career, which will see him join the command echelon of the Knesset Guard.

The Knesset Guard views this appointment as a testament to the values of internal promotion, professionalism, and the integration of the Druze community into the state's security and public service sectors.