A Series of Resignations in the Israeli Forces, Led by Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi  

Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi announced on January 21, 2025, that he will resign on March 6, taking responsibility for the Forces's failure during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Halevi stated: "At this stage, after the Israeli Forces has achieved significant accomplishments and is close to finalizing a deal to release hostages, I am requesting to be relieved of my duties." His short tenure, beginning in January 2023, marks one of the briefest in Israeli history.  

Halevi emphasized the need for "major operations in the West Bank in the coming days" while continuing defensive preparations in Gaza.

Simultaneously, the Israeli Forces launched "Iron Wall," a military campaign in Jenin aimed at thwarting terrorist activities. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported casualties and injuries, while Jenin Governor Kamel Abu Rab stated: "The Israeli Forces is storming the city... and people don’t know where to go."  

The resignation triggered further upheaval, with media reporting the departure of Yaron Finkelman, Commander of the Southern Command. Far-right politician Itamar Ben Gvir urged the appointment of a strong new Chief of Staff: "Someone who will lead us to defeat Hamas."  

Opposition leader Yair Lapid praised Halevi's decision and called for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign, stating: "The Prime Minister and his catastrophic government must take responsibility." Benny Gantz commended Halevi for taking responsibility, describing him as a "warrior who fought for his country," while also urging Netanyahu to establish an inquiry into the October 7 events and lead the country toward new elections.