Israel’s Military Chief Resigns Over October 7 Hamas Attack Failures
TEL AVIV – Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, Israel’s military chief, announced his resignation on Tuesday, taking responsibility for the army’s failures during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
In his resignation letter, Halevi stated, “I am stepping down because I accept responsibility for the events of October 7.” While acknowledging the military’s shortcomings, he highlighted the army’s “significant successes” and ongoing efforts to achieve war objectives.
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Background on the Attack and Aftermath
The October 7 attack, carried out by thousands of Hamas fighters, marked one of the deadliest events in Israeli history, leaving 1,200 Israelis dead and over 250 taken hostage. The violence prompted a prolonged military response, during which Israeli strikes on Gaza led to over 47,000 Palestinian fatalities, according to health authorities in the region.
Resignations and Future Steps
Alongside Halevi, Major General Yaron Finkelman, head of the southern command responsible for Gaza, also resigned. Halevi is expected to leave his position on March 6, focusing on finalizing investigations into the October 7 events and strengthening military readiness before his departure.
The resignations come shortly after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, ending 15 months of war. Halevi reiterated the military’s commitment to dismantling Hamas, securing the release of hostages, and supporting displaced Israelis.
