2024-04-24 02:28:33
Tel Aviv: Israel’s military intelligence chief Maj. Gen. Aharon HaLiva resigned on Monday, taking responsibility for his unit’s failures during Hamas’ October 7 surprise attack on the Jewish state. Haliva is the first general of the Israeli Army’s General Staff to resign over Palestinian rebel organization Hamas’s massive attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza.
‘Could not live up to the task’
In his resignation letter, written in Hebrew, Haliva said, “The intelligence department did not live up to the task that was assigned to us. Throughout my entire performance of duty, I knew that with authority comes great responsibility.” Said that he wanted to “take responsibility” for what happened on October 7 and promised to do his best to accomplish the goals of the war as much as possible.
What kind of investigation did Haliwa demand?
Haliwa also called for the establishment of an investigative committee, “which will investigate in a deep, thorough, comprehensive and detailed manner the factors and circumstances that led to the difficult events.” Additionally, in the letter, Haliwa called for the Directorate of Military Intelligence in the War. Highly praised the performance of the employees.
Israeli army confirms resignation
Confirming HaLiva’s resignation, the Israel Defense Forces (DBOF) said in a statement, “With the approval of the Defense Minister, Major General Aharon HaLiva is to be relieved of IDF service after a successor is appointed through an authentic and professional process.” “The Chief of Staff thanked Major General Aharon Haleiwa for more than 38 years of service,” it said.
Opposition demands resignation from Netanyahu
Meanwhile, reacting to Aharon’s resignation, Vladimir Beliak, a member of the opposition Yesh Atid party, called for the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “The head of the IDF Intelligence Directorate finds it wise to resign,” he posted. An inquiry committee should be formed immediately. The Prime Minister should resign immediately.