Jerusalem police get almost free housing in Nahlaot project

In a unique program, 18 officers will move into fully furnished apartments in Jerusalem’s Nahlaot neighborhood with minimal monthly rent
Jerusalem police officers at the inauguration of the affordable housing project in Nahlaot
Inauguration of the affordable housing project for Jerusalem District police (Photo: Israel Police Spokesperson)

The Israel Police Jerusalem District this week inaugurated a new stage of the Miftaḥ housing project, designed to provide affordable housing solutions for police officers in the city. Under the program, 18 police officers in designated roles across district stations and Border Police units will soon live in a residential building in Nahlaot Jerusalem, where seven fully furnished apartments have been rented. The rent was set at a symbolic sum of 450 shekels per month, making it almost free housing in the heart of the city

Subsidized rent for designated police officers

The initiative addresses the housing shortage faced by Jerusalem District officers and Border Police. In recent years, the Human Resources Division of the Israel Police has led several projects for officer welfare, with Miftaḥ at the forefront. Last year, a similar project was launched in Sderot, where 75 officers are already enjoying subsidized rent close to their workplace. “This project is not only a housing solution – it is a symbol of our commitment to officer welfare,” said Jerusalem District Commander Maj. Gen. Amir Arzani. He added: “The move follows the new salary agreement and a series of additional benefits, all designed to ensure that our officers can continue protecting the residents and visitors of Jerusalem

Miftaḥ project in the heart of Nahlaot Jerusalem

The choice of Nahlaot Jerusalem reflects the goal of embedding police officers within the city’s community fabric. Deputy Commissioner Avshalom Peled stated at the ceremony: “The project is first and foremost about providing an answer to officers serving on the frontline, securing the State of Israel. Living within the community enables officers to be constantly available and to respond rapidly to security incidents, as proven during the events of October 7

Affordable housing for police in Jerusalem

Head of the Human Resources Division, Maj. Gen. Alona Shoshan, emphasized: “I am proud to inaugurate the second stage of the Miftaḥ project. After the success in Sderot, we are determined to expand the initiative. Together with the Police Commissioner and the support of the Minister of National Security, we will do everything possible to ensure fair conditions for our officers. They give their all to Israel’s citizens – and it is time we give back

Rafael Engel, Director General of the Ministry of National Security, added: “Governance means police officers live in the heart of the neighborhood, safeguarding its residents. The Jerusalem project is another step in that direction, and we aim to expand it nationwide. This week’s Torah portion speaks of ‘judges and police at your gates,’ reminding us of the need for officers as part of the community

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Jerusalem District Rabbi Shimon Shukrun gave the event a spiritual note: “This police residence carries historic significance. Years ago, Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, one of the great Talmud commentators, lived here. It is only natural that the mezuzah he placed continues to protect the officers, as they protect Jerusalem