IDF Chief Herzi Halevi and Southern Command Chief Resign Over October 7 Failures

Jan 21, 2025, 01:32 PM

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi announced his resignation, effective March 6, 2025, citing responsibility for the military's failure to prevent the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas. In a letter to Defense Minister Israel Katz, Halevi stated that the IDF failed in its mission to defend Israel, and that the terrible failure haunts him every day and every hour, and will remain with him for the rest of his life. He also acknowledged that the IDF has recorded significant achievements since then and is in the process of implementing an agreement to release hostages. Shortly after Halevi's announcement, Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, the head of the IDF Southern Command, also announced his resignation, citing his responsibility for failing to protect southern Israel during the attacks. Finkelman stated that the failure is 'etched in me for the rest of my life.' Defense Minister Israel Katz expressed appreciation for Halevi's contribution to the military.