The Chief of Staff stated in a letter to Defense Minister Israel Katz that he plans to leave his position on March 6, about a month and a half from now—coinciding with the end of the first phase of the hostage deal and exactly 17 months since the war began. The Southern Command General Finkelman did not specify when his resignation would take effect.
In a statement released to the media, Halevi wrote: “Today, I informed the Defense Minister that, in recognition of my responsibility for the IDF’s failure on October 7 and at a time when the IDF has achieved significant accomplishments and is in the process of implementing the hostage release agreement, I wish to end my tenure on March 6, 2025. In the time remaining, I will complete the investigations and strengthen the IDF’s readiness for future security challenges. I will ensure a smooth and thorough transfer of command to my successor. I have sent a letter on this matter to the Defense Minister and the Prime Minister.”
Chief of Staff’s Letter: “This Decision Was Made Long Ago”
In a letter to the Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Halevi elaborated on his decision to resign: “On October 7, the IDF under my command failed in its mission to protect the citizens of Israel. My responsibility for this horrific failure accompanies me every day, every hour, and it will remain with me for the rest of my life,” he wrote with evident pain. “In recognition of my responsibility for the IDF’s failure on October 7 and at a time when the IDF has recorded extraordinary achievements, restoring the deterrence and strength of the State of Israel, I wish to conclude my role on March 6, 2025. This decision was made long ago.”
Halevi also highlighted the IDF’s achievements under his leadership in all theaters of war during the ongoing conflict: “The IDF rose from an incredibly challenging starting point to conduct intense combat for over a year and three months across seven different war fronts. The IDF’s military achievements have reshaped the Middle East,” Halevi concluded. “These achievements far surpass any expectations discussed with the political leadership for the conflict in each of the theaters, and their significance is even greater given the interconnectedness of these theaters.”
