Israel's Health Ministry Chief to Step Down After Nine Years

Israel's Health Ministry Director-General Moshe Bar Siman Tov announced Tuesday that he plans to step down in the coming weeks, bringing to an end a combined nine years leading the ministry through some of the country's most challenging public health crises.

Bar Siman Tov informed Health Minister Chaim Katz of his decision and said he would remain in his position until his departure to ensure a smooth transition to his successor.

Following his resignation, Bar Siman Tov is expected to join Columbia University in New York, where he will focus on research and writing about how healthcare systems respond to national trauma, drawing on Israel's experiences in recent years.

His tenure was marked by several major national emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he played a leading role in coordinating Israel's response to the virus.

He also oversaw the healthcare system during the Swords of Iron war, which began following the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attacks. Throughout the conflict, hospitals and medical teams treated thousands of wounded patients, provided care for hostages returning from captivity, and continued operating under ongoing security threats.

During the war, Bar Siman Tov served under several health ministers. The current minister, Chaim Katz, holds the health portfolio on a quarter-time basis while also overseeing the housing, welfare, and tourism ministries.

Beyond managing national emergencies, Bar Siman Tov promoted a national mental health program aimed at addressing the psychological impact of widespread trauma. He also worked to strengthen healthcare services and medical infrastructure in Israel's peripheral regions, where access to treatment can be more limited.

In announcing his departure, Bar Siman Tov expressed confidence in the country's healthcare system and its ability to respond to future challenges.

“I am concluding my role knowing that Israel's health system is strong, professional and prepared for any challenge,” he said.

He attributed the system's resilience to the dedication and professionalism of healthcare workers, noting that public trust in the healthcare system had reached 87%, which he described as the highest level among Israel's public institutions.

Bar Siman Tov thanked Health Minister Katz, former ministers Uriel Busso, Moshe Arbel, and Aryeh Deri, as well as senior ministry officials and healthcare organizations for their cooperation throughout his tenure.

“The health system is an inseparable part of my professional identity, and I am grateful for the privilege I was given to serve the public in Israel,” he said.

Minister Katz thanked Bar Siman Tov for his years of service and their cooperation in advancing healthcare services, wishing him success in his next chapter.