MADRID, 24 Oct. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Israeli government has confirmed this Sunday that General Herzi Halevi, former head of the country’s military intelligence, has been appointed as the next military leader to head the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) from now on.
After the announcement by the Executive of Yair Lapid, the until now military chief, General Aviv Kochavi, congratulated Halevi, who will become the 23rd leader of the Army.
“I welcome the government’s approval of the appointment of General Herzi Halevi as the 23rd Chief of Staff of the IDF,” he said.
Along these lines, he commented that both –Kochavi and Halevi– have known each other for many years, and he described his partner as a “brave, professional and talented” soldier.
“Herzi is an excellent and experienced officer, and I am sure that he will continue to lead the IDF in the expected challenges,” he added, before wishing his successor “much success” in his professional future.
Defense Minister Benny Gantz proposed Halevi’s appointment in early September, citing the IDF’s need for stability, reports the Israeli portal Ynet.
In a group of three candidates, Halevi, 54, was seen as the favorite for the job, having served as head of the IDF’s Southern Command and head of Military Intelligence, reports the Times of Israel newspaper.
On Tuesday, the Senior Appointments Advisory Committee approved Halevi taking over from outgoing army commander Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, who will finish his term in January 2023.
