Itzhakov, 37, is married and resides in Netanya. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Legal Studies.

Over the past decade, Itzhakov has held a series of key positions within the Knesset and the government. Since 2023, he has served as the Chief of Staff for the Minister of Tourism.

Among his previous roles, he was responsible for legislative affairs in both the Knesset and the government while in the office of the Minister of Labor and Social Welfare. He spearheaded the legislation of dozens of laws in the 20th Knesset, including the historic law increasing disability allowances and a reform to change long-term care benefits.

At the Ministry of Tourism, Itzhakov planned and executed a series of strategic initiatives aimed at rehabilitating the tourism industry in the wake of the recent war. He was responsible for the national project to house 90,000 evacuees in hotels, a project with an estimated total cost exceeding 7 billion ILS. Additionally, he promoted the initiative for mixed-use land designation for hotels, which is expected to accelerate the construction of new hotel rooms in Israel.

Minister of Tourism Haim Katz stated, “Michael brings with him rich experience in the work of the Knesset and the government, as well as in the core areas of the Ministry of Tourism. The tourism industry is facing its biggest crisis ever, and I am confident that Michael will optimally implement my policies and advance the necessary immediate and long-term actions for the rehabilitation and prosperity of tourism. I would like to thank the outgoing Director-General, Danny Shahar, for his dedication in fulfilling his role, his fruitful work, and his significant contribution”.

Michael Itzhakov commented, “I thank Minister Haim Katz for his trust and my colleague Dani Shahar for leading the ministry in recent years. The tourism industry is a significant growth engine for the Israeli economy, and the future of tens of thousands of families depends on its success. In this challenging period, rehabilitating tourism and providing industry with the tools for the day after is a national mission. In line with the Minister’s policy, I will operate with a professional approach based on measurement, efficiency, and economic benefit – with a deep belief in the Israeli tourism industry’s ability to achieve unprecedented accomplishments”.

Michael Itzhakov’s appointment is effective immediately. He replaces Brigadier General (Res.) Dani Shahar, who served in the role for approximately 3.5 years.