Israel’s Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, has announced his resignation, citing responsibility for the failure to prevent the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas. Halevi stated in a letter to the Prime Minister and Defense Minister that he would step down on March 6, 2025, following the completion of his tenure.
In the letter, Halevi acknowledged the failure of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) under his command to protect civilians during the attack, which resulted in significant loss of life, hostages, and physical and mental injuries. Despite this, he highlighted the military’s achievements in restoring Israel’s deterrence and strength since the attack.
The resignation follows pressure from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who had set a January 30 deadline for internal military investigations into the October 7 events. Halevi’s departure marks the most prominent resignation within Israel’s security establishment tied to the attack.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has faced criticism for not taking responsibility for the incident, thanked Halevi for his service and leadership of the IDF during a conversation on Tuesday. The Prime Minister has reiterated that accountability for the failures will be addressed only after the ongoing conflict concludes.
Major General Yaron Finkelman, Commanding Officer of Israel’s Southern Command, also submitted his resignation. Finkelman cited his inability to protect the western Negev and its residents during the attack.
The resignations come shortly after a ceasefire with Hamas took effect in Gaza. Under the agreement, discussions on a permanent end to the conflict are set to begin on February 4, 2025.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right member of the government, expressed opposition to the ceasefire and considered resigning. However, he decided to remain in government after receiving assurances from Netanyahu that military operations in Gaza would continue.
These developments reflect ongoing tensions within Israel’s political and military leadership as the country grapples with the aftermath of the October 7 attack and its implications for national security and governance.
