Israel’s top general, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has resigned, taking responsibility for the security failures that led to Hamas’s surprise attack on October 7, 2023.
This attack triggered the war in Gaza and resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 250 individuals, with over 90 still being held in Gaza.
Halevi’s resignation has put pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has delayed a public inquiry into the attack. The Israeli military’s response to the attack has been criticized. Many questioned the preparedness and effectiveness of the military’s defense strategies.
In his resignation letter, Halevi stated that the military, under his command, had “failed in its mission to defend the State of Israel.” He acknowledged that the security breakdown on October 7 was a significant failure and took full responsibility for the consequences.
The aftermath of the attack resulted in Israel launching a large military operation in the occupied West Bank, resulting in the deaths of at least 9 people and injuring over 40 others, according to Palestinian officials.
Halevi’s resignation will take effect on March 6, marking the end of his tenure as Israel’s top general.
