Taking responsibility for the massive security lapse on October 7 – when Hamas attacked Israel, Israel’s Army Chief Herzi Halevi on Tuesday said that he would resign on March 6.
The military released Halevi’s letter to Israel’s Prime Minister and Defence Minister which revealed his decision. Halevi said the military, under his command, had “failed in its mission to defend the State of Israel.”
“As a result of my responsibility for the IDF’s failure on October 7, and at a time when the military has recorded exceptional achievements in restoring Israel’s deterrence and strength, I wish to conclude my tenure on March 6, 2025.”
“I will transfer command of the IDF in a high-quality and thorough manner to my successor,” wrote Halevi, Chief of the General Staff of Israel’s armed forces.
On October 7, 2023, thousands of Hamas-led militants carried out a deadly land, sea and air attack into southern Israel. They ravaged the army bases and nearby communities killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 250.
At least 90 captives are still being held in Gaza, around a third of whom are believed to be dead.
Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi is the most senior Israeli figure to resign over the security breakdown at that time.
In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said that Netanyahu spoke with Halevi and thanked him for his long service and his command of the IDF,” CNN reported.
Halevi's resignation comes just days after the first phase of ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect. Three female Israeli hostages who were held by Hamas were returned to Hamas as part of the ceasefire deal on day 1 of six-week long first phase. Israel also released 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange.
Meanwhile on Tuesday, Israel launched a large military operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, the operation killed at least six people and wounded 35.
