Israeli intelligence chief resigned

 

The intelligence chief of the Israeli military has resigned, citing responsibility for the oversights leading up to Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7th.

Major General Aharon Haliva of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that he would retire once his successor was chosen, acknowledging in a letter that his intelligence directorate had fallen short of its entrusted task.

This marks the first resignation of a senior figure in connection with the attack, the deadliest in Israel's history. Prior to the assault, Israeli military and intelligence officials reportedly overlooked or dismissed several warnings, allowing hundreds of Hamas gunmen to breach the Gaza border fence and assault nearby Israeli communities, military installations, and a music festival.

Approximately 1,200 individuals, mostly civilians, were killed, and 253 others were taken as hostages back to Gaza, according to Israeli reports. In response, Israel launched its most extensive war in Gaza with the aim of eliminating Hamas and securing the release of the hostages.

The IDF announced Major General Haliva's departure, noting that he had "requested to end his position" due to his leadership responsibility for the events on October 7th. In his resignation letter, Haliva expressed the profound impact of the attack, stating that he would carry the burden of that day indefinitely.

He called for the establishment of a state commission of inquiry to thoroughly investigate the factors leading to the tragic events. Haliva emphasized his lifelong dedication to serving the people and the State of Israel.

While Haliva's resignation had been expected, its announcement sets the stage for potential repercussions among Israel's top security officials. Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi and Shin Bet director Ronen Bar have assumed responsibility for the failure to protect Israelis but have chosen to remain in their positions for the duration of the Gaza conflict.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged that everyone involved will be held accountable, though he has not personally accepted direct responsibility. Opposition leader Yair Lapid deemed Haliva's resignation as justified and honorable, yet criticized Netanyahu for not following suit.