Eyal Zamir takes charge as Israel’s new military chief
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Jerusalem: Eyal Zamir assumed command as the 24th Chief of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday, warning that Israel’s multi-front conflict is ongoing and vowing to strike its enemies with “tremendous force.”
Zamir, 59, took over during a change-of-command ceremony at the Kirya military base in Tel Aviv after his appointment was approved by the government on February 16. He replaced Herzi Halevi, who resigned in January following criticism over his failure to prevent the deadly Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023.
A seasoned military officer, Zamir previously served as Director General of the Defence Ministry, Commander of the Southern Command, and Deputy Chief of Staff. He joined the IDF in 1985 and became a tank commander the following year.
During the ceremony, Zamir’s wife, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Defence Minister Israel Katz pinned his new ranks onto his uniform.
Netanyahu emphasized that Zamir’s primary mission is to secure “absolute victory” over Hamas. “We are in the midst of a prolonged campaign,” Netanyahu said. “As I promised, we have changed the face of the Middle East, and more is yet to come.”
He also highlighted a strategic shift under Zamir’s leadership, aimed at bolstering domestic ammunition production to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. This comes amid restrictions imposed by some countries, including Israel’s key ally, the United States, on certain types of ammunition due to concerns over the civilian toll in Gaza.
Zamir assumes office at a highly sensitive time, as the fragile ceasefire with Hamas, which took effect on January 19, remains uncertain. Meanwhile, violence continues to escalate with Israel’s large-scale military campaign in the northern occupied West Bank, and rising tensions with Iran, its longtime adversary.
Acknowledging the weight of his new role, Zamir delivered a hawkish speech, declaring that Israel is engaged in a “war of existence.” He vowed to “strike with tremendous force at anyone who seeks to harm the State of Israel and its citizens.”
He described Israel’s security as a relentless struggle in a hostile region, emphasizing the need for increased military reinforcement and a stronger defense budget. “Israel faces a constant, fundamental existential threat. Surrounded by ruthless enemies who seek our destruction, we must continue to strengthen and fortify the ‘iron wall,’” he said.
With IANS inputs
