Top Israeli general resigns over failure to prevent Hamas attack that ignited war in Gaza
Israel’s top military official, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, has resigned amid widespread criticism over the failure to prevent the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, which marked a significant security breakdown for the nation. This resignation is particularly notable as it comes shortly after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, following a prolonged and devastating conflict in Gaza.
Acknowledgment of Failure: In his resignation letter, Halevi stated that the military had “failed in its mission to defend the State of Israel” during the Hamas offensive. He expressed that this “grave failure” weighs heavily on him daily.
Timing and Impact: Halevi’s resignation will take effect on March 6, 2025, and he is the highest-ranking Israeli official to resign over the October 7 attack, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and around 250 abductions. His departure adds pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has faced calls for accountability regarding his leadership during this crisis.
Military Context: The attack by Hamas involved a coordinated assault that breached Israeli defenses through land, sea, and air, leading to significant casualties and prompting a severe military response from Israel in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has reportedly resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly civilians.
Broader Implications: Halevi’s resignation is expected to intensify demands for a public inquiry into the security failures leading up to the October 7 attack. This inquiry could potentially implicate Netanyahu and other senior officials in the government’s handling of security matters.
Following Halevi’s announcement, Major General Yaron Finkelman, head of Israel’s Southern Command, also indicated his intention to resign. These resignations may further fuel public scrutiny regarding military and government accountability during this critical period in Israeli history.
The situation remains fluid as Israel continues its military operations while navigating complex political pressures both domestically and internationally.