Israel: Netanyahu appoints Eyal Zamir as new military chief
What's the story
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Major General Eyal Zamir as the new chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The transition will take place on March 6, 2025amidst a key ceasefire agreement. Zamir's appointment comes after Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi resigned over security failures during Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023.
Ceasefire context
Zamir's appointment amid ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire
Zamir, who is currently the director general of Israel's defense ministry, was selected over Major General Amir Baram and Major General Tamir Yadai. He has also served as the deputy chief of staff and head of the military's Southern Command. His appointment comes at a crucial time as Israel faces complex security threats, including ongoing hostilities with Hamas in Gaza and increased tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Leadership transition
Halevi expresses confidence in Zamir's leadership
Halevi has voiced his confidence in Zamir's leadership capabilities. "I have known Eyal for many years, and I am confident that he will lead the IDF forward in the face of the challenges ahead," he said. He also promised a "professional and high-quality" transition process. The first phase of this ceasefire is expected to see 33 Israeli hostages being released in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
Upcoming talks
Ceasefire negotiations to begin in Washington
The ceasefire deal also involves reopening the Rafah border crossing with Egypt for medical evacuations. Negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire will begin in Washington on Monday. The talks are expected to ensure the release of remaining hostages and possibly extend the truce indefinitely. If an agreement is not reached, conflict could resume by early March.