Israeli Military Intelligence Chief Resigns Over October 7 Hamas Attack

The Israeli military announced on Monday that Major General Aharon Haliva, the head of its intelligence directorate, has resigned following the October 7 attack by Hamas, for which he took responsibility.

Major General Haliva’s resignation marks the first high-ranking official to step down in response to the failure to prevent the unprecedented attack, which shocked both Israel and the international community.

In a statement, the military stated, “Major General Aharon Haliva, in coordination with the chief of the general staff, has requested to end his position, following his leadership responsibility as the head of the intelligence directorate for the events of October 7.”

The statement further added, “It was decided that MG Aharon Haliva will end his position and retire from the IDF (army), once his successor is appointed in an orderly and professional process.”

In his resignation letter, Haliva accepted responsibility for the failure to prevent the attack, stating, “On Saturday, October 7th, 2023, Hamas committed a deadly surprise attack against the state of Israel. The intelligence division under my command did not live up to the task we were entrusted with. I carry that black day with me ever since. Day after day, night after night. I will forever carry with me the terrible pain of the war.”

The Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

In response to the attack, Israel has vowed to eliminate Hamas and has launched a fierce offensive against the militant group, which governs the Gaza Strip.