IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi announced Tuesday his resignation following the military's failures on Hamas' deadly Oct. 7, 2023 attack, in which over 1,200 Israelis – mostly civilians – were killed, and 250 were taken hostage.
"I notified the Defense Minister today (Tuesday) that in acknowledgment of my responsibility for the IDF's failure on Oct. 7 and at this juncture when the IDF has recorded significant achievements and is implementing a hostage release agreement, I am requesting to conclude my tenure on March 6, 2025," he wrote in an official statement. "During the remaining period, I will complete all investigations and reinforce the IDF's operational capabilities to meet security challenges," he added.
"Throughout the past four decades, protecting Israel's security has been the mission that defined my life," Halevi wrote. "On the morning of Oct. 7, the IDF under my command failed to fulfill its fundamental mission of protecting Israeli citizens. The State of Israel has endured a devastating and painful toll – in lives lost, in hostages taken, and in both physical and psychological trauma. Despite countless acts of valor from many – our security forces, IDF soldiers and commanders, and brave civilians – these heroic efforts could not prevent the catastrophic outcome. The weight of my responsibility for this terrible failure remains with me every day, every hour, and will continue to do so for the remainder of my life," he emphasized.
Lieutenant General Halevi assumed the role as the IDF's 23rd chief of staff in January 2023, following a career that included serving in crucial leadership positions such as director of Military Intelligence, commander of the Southern Command, and deputy chief of staff.
Major General Yaron Finkelman, commander of the Southern Command who took office in July 2023, has also announced the conclusion of his tenure. Finkelman stated in his resignation letter: "Guided by my conscience and the values I hold, I have made the decision to conclude my position as Southern Command commander and my service in the IDF. On Oct. 7, I failed to defend the western Negev and its beloved and heroic residents. This failure will remain etched within me for the rest of my life."
