Tue Jan 21 21:11:14 IST 2025: ## Israel’s Military Chief Resigns After Hamas War, Truce Holds (For Now)

**JERUSALEM** – Amidst a fragile truce following a devastating 15-month war, Israel’s military chief, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, resigned on Tuesday, taking responsibility for the military’s failure to prevent Hamas’s October 7 attack. The attack, the deadliest in Israeli history, killed over 1,200 Israelis and sparked a conflict that resulted in the deaths of an estimated 46,913 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry – figures the UN considers reliable. The attack also saw the capture of 251 Israelis, 91 of whom remain hostages.

Halevi’s resignation was swiftly followed by that of Major General Yaron Finkelman, head of the Southern Military Command responsible for Gaza. While acknowledging significant military successes during the conflict, Halevi stated his resignation was due to his acceptance of responsibility for the October 7 intelligence failure. He emphasized the ongoing military efforts to dismantle Hamas, secure the release of hostages, and allow displaced Israelis to return home.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid called for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to follow suit, criticizing the government’s handling of the crisis. Netanyahu, who vowed to crush Hamas and return all hostages, has launched a military operation in the West Bank, targeting what he described as Iranian-backed militants. This operation, resulting in eight Palestinian deaths according to the Palestinian health ministry, occurred amidst a tense calm in Gaza.

A ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and the United States, went into effect Sunday. While the initial prisoner exchange, involving three Israeli women hostages for 90 Palestinian prisoners, offered a glimmer of hope, US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about its longevity. However, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani expressed optimism, suggesting the ceasefire could lead to a lasting peace if both sides act in good faith. A further exchange of hostages is planned, with a total of 33 hostages expected to be returned in exchange for approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners over a 42-day period. Negotiations for a permanent ceasefire are expected to take place during this time.

Humanitarian aid is flowing into Gaza, and displaced Palestinians are cautiously returning home. Despite the fragile truce, the future remains uncertain, overshadowed by ongoing violence in the West Bank and the immense task of rebuilding Gaza.

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