Chief of the General Staff of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) Herzi Galevi Photo: IDF press service
IDF Chief of Staff Gertzi Halevi has issued a strong statement responding to criticism of the freeze on appointments in the Southern Command following the catastrophic events of 7 October. In a letter to commanders on Friday, he stressed his responsibility for personnel decisions and hinted that the results of the investigation could lead to his own resignation, the Jerusalem Post reported.
“Criticism is being voiced about the appointment process in the context of the 7 October defence debacle,” Galevi wrote.
Freezing appointments
This week, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz froze the approval of two appointments to the Southern Command, stating that it was necessary to check their involvement in the events of 7 October. The other 40 appointments were approved, but this selectivity caused a stir in military circles.
Halevi stressed that the appointment of officers is not a privilege, but a “command and operational duty”. “As the Chief of the General Staff, I am the one who determines the complexity of the tasks, who sends you to the battlefield. It is my responsibility and duty to ensure that the IDF continues to win, to guarantee security and to carry out its missions. As a result, it is also my responsibility to develop you for your next roles,” he said.
Investigation on 7 October
Ghalevi also stressed the importance of the investigation into the events of 7 October, calling it “an integral part of the process”. According to him, the analysis of what happened is being carried out with “deep seriousness and pain” in order to improve the army’s readiness and draw the necessary conclusions.
“After the investigations are completed, we will also make personal decisions and determine the responsibility of commanders – starting with me and going forward,” added Ghalevi, hinting at possible personnel changes or even his own resignation.
