Israel’s top military officer, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, has decided to step down from his role. He’s taking responsibility for the military’s inability to stop the devastating attack by Hamas on October 7. In a letter shared with the public, Halevi confirmed he’ll leave his post on March 6, 2025. The October 7 attack caught Israel off guard, leading to significant loss of life and widespread disruption. Halevi acknowledged this failure, stating, “The State of Israel paid a heavy and painful price in lives lost, in those taken hostage, in the wounded – both physically and mentally.” His resignation is the most prominent yet among officials linked to the security establishment’s shortcomings that day. Halevi’s decision comes shortly after a temporary ceasefire with Hamas took effect in Gaza. Talks for a lasting peace are set to begin in early February. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refrained from accepting personal accountability, suggesting that questions about responsibility will be addressed after the conflict ends. The military chief had also faced criticism from far-right members of the government who felt he wasn’t aggressive enough in the war efforts. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich even considered stepping down over the ceasefire but stayed after receiving assurances from Netanyahu about continuing military operations. Notably, the commander of Israel’s Southern Command, Major General Yaron Finkelman, has also resigned, admitting he failed to protect the western Negev region during the attack. Halevi’s resignation marks a significant moment in Israel’s ongoing response to the October 7 crisis, as the nation continues to grapple with its aftermath and future security challenges.