The government has approved the appointment of Israel Malachi as director-general of the Finance Ministry, following his selection by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Malachi, 49, previously served as the ministry’s deputy director-general for three and a half years and replaces Ilan Rom, who resigned after the 2026 state budget was passed.

Malachi is considered a close associate of Smotrich, prompting criticism over the appointment. He previously served as treasurer of the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council, which oversees more than 40 West Bank settlements. Critics have questioned whether the selection was based on professional merit or personal trust.

The Finance Ministry cited Malachi’s extensive experience in government, local authorities, and the nonprofit sector, as well as his role in leading rehabilitation efforts for communities near the Gaza border. Smotrich described him as a top-tier professional whose familiarity with the ministry would strengthen its work.

Members of the appointments committee also raised concerns about the lack of women in senior government positions. One committee member argued that the selection process did not meet standards for equitable representation, noting that all 33 current director-generals in government are men.