Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the Israeli military chief of staff, reportedly declared on Tuesday his intention to leave in early March, attributing his decision partly to the IDF’s inability to safeguard Israelis during the Hamas-led assaults on October 7, 2023.
The significant casualties from the Hamas attacks—1,200 fatalities in Israel and 250 individuals abducted to Gaza—had long fostered an anticipation in Israel that some officials would eventually retire.
Only a few have done so, partly due to Israel’s unprecedented conflict, and General Halevi is the highest-ranking military official to resign thus far.
General Halevi resigned within three days following the commencement of a 42-day truce between Israel and Hamas, marking the initial phase of a cease-fire and hostage release agreement.
On Sunday, Hamas liberated three female hostages in exchange for 90 Palestinians incarcerated by Israel, predominantly women and youngsters.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed demands for his resignation for the strike, stating that he will address “difficult questions” post-conflict, similar to others.
He has provided no indication that any changes will occur because to the truce with Hamas, which mediators aspire will finally conclude the conflict.
In the last 15 months, General Halevi, who took office in early 2023, has directed the Israeli military during the Gaza conflict, a land incursion into Lebanon, military actions in Syria, and strikes in Iran.
General Halevi stated that the cease-fire agreement with Hamas has created an opportune moment for his departure.
However, he acknowledged that Israel’s objectives in the campaign, which encompass the annihilation of Hamas and the recovery of all surviving hostages, have not yet been realized.
On Sunday, Hamas militants commemorated the cease-fire by displaying military strength throughout the enclave, as disguised and armed combatants paraded openly in its cities, conveying the message that they retained authority despite the catastrophic conflict with Israel.
The majority of hostages will remain in Gaza until Israel negotiates fresh agreements with Hamas to prolong the 42-day ceasefire.
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