Israel’s military leadership experienced a significant shake-up as Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the country’s top general, announced his resignation on Tuesday, citing the security and intelligence failures surrounding Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack.
The resignation, which takes effect March 6, was accompanied by that of Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, head of Israel’s Southern Command overseeing Gaza operations.
Halevi, who began his three-year term in January 2023, became the highest-ranking Israeli official to step down over the Oct. 7 security breakdown, when Hamas militants conducted a coordinated assault that resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken. More than 90 captives remain in Gaza, with about a third presumed dead.
The timing of these resignations coincides with a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which could potentially end the conflict and secure the release of remaining hostages. The announcements are likely to intensify calls for a public inquiry into the Oct. 7 failures, something Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has postponed until after the war’s conclusion.
Meanwhile, Israel launched a major military operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, resulting in at least six Palestinian deaths and 35 injuries, according to Palestinian health officials. The operation, described as “significant and broad,” targets militant groups in an area that has seen frequent Israeli incursions.
The West Bank operation occurs against the backdrop of a six-week ceasefire agreement with Hamas in Gaza, which began Sunday. The truce includes provisions for the exchange of 33 hostages for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The initial exchange saw three hostages and 90 prisoners released.
Netanyahu’s government faces internal pressure over the ceasefire, with a far-right minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, already quitting the coalition and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich threatening to follow if fighting doesn’t resume after the truce.
Read more: Israel’s top general resigns over Oct. 7 failures as it launches major operation in West Bank
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