Eyal Zamir Appointed as New IDF Chief of Staff

On Saturday, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the appointment of Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir as the new Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), replacing Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi. This marks a significant shift in Israel's military leadership, following Halevi's resignation due to the IDF's failure to prevent the October 7 attack.

Zamir, the current Director-General of the Defense Ministry, brings extensive experience to the role. Having served as deputy IDF chief, Southern Command chief, and military secretary to the prime minister, his career spans key positions within Israel’s military establishment. Notably, Zamir was a close contender for the position in 2023, finishing second to Halevi.

Zamir has also held some of the most prestigious positions in the IDF, with his tenure as the head of Southern Command from 2015 to 2018 and deputy IDF chief giving him a strong strategic background. As a tank commander by training, Zamir's leadership style is unique in the IDF, where infantry and special forces commanders often dominate. His experience in senior military roles, combined with his neutral stance while serving as Netanyahu's military secretary, helped him secure the appointment this time around.

While his role in the Southern Command raised some questions, particularly after the events of October 7, Zamir’s tenure there predated the attacks, ensuring a degree of separation from the failure. His advocacy for a stronger military and larger infantry force also resonated with senior defense officials, who highlighted the need for a more capable defense strategy following the attack.

Zamir’s appointment has been widely supported by political and defense leaders. Outgoing IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi expressed confidence in Zamir’s ability to lead the IDF through future challenges, and other prominent figures, including Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid, also congratulated him. IDF Deputy Chief of Staff Maj.-Gen. Amir Baram and former defense minister Yoav Gallant praised Zamir's combat leadership and strategic vision.

Zamir's transition into the role will be closely observed as he takes charge amidst ongoing security challenges and prepares for a smooth handover from Halevi. The change in leadership comes at a critical time, with ongoing efforts to restructure the military and address its shortcomings, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks.

With Halevi set to step down in March, the transition process will be carefully managed to ensure continuity in the IDF’s operations.