Wed Mar 05 18:12:41 UTC 2025: ## Israel Swears in New Military Chief Amidst Gaza Uncertainty and Calls for Wider Inquiry into October 7th Failures

**TEL AVIV** – Major General Eyal Zamir was sworn in as Israel’s new military chief on Wednesday, succeeding Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi who resigned in January, taking responsibility for the military’s failures in the lead-up to the October 7th Hamas attack. The ceremony comes amidst a fragile ceasefire in Gaza and ongoing investigations into the devastating attack that killed at least 1,139 Israelis and resulted in hundreds being taken captive.

Outgoing chief Halevi, in his final address, urged for a broader inquiry into the October 7th failures, advocating for a state commission “not to place blame, but to understand the root of the problems and allow for correction.” While both the military and the Shin Bet security agency have acknowledged failures, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thus far resisted a wider investigation encompassing government responsibility.

The January ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and Egypt, has seen the release of some Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, 59 Israeli captives remain, stalling negotiations for a second phase of the truce. Israel wants an extension of the current phase until April to secure their release, while Hamas insists on discussions regarding a permanent end to the war before further prisoner releases.

The new military chief, Zamir, faces significant challenges. He acknowledged that while Hamas has suffered a blow, “the mission is not yet accomplished,” highlighting the ongoing uncertainty. Netanyahu, meanwhile, reiterated Israel’s determination to achieve victory.

Zamir’s appointment also comes as Israel faces accusations of war crimes during its Gaza operation from international bodies like the UN. Israel denies these charges but has indicted some soldiers for abuse of detainees, while simultaneously accusing Hamas of numerous war crimes and atrocities during the October 7th attack. The conflict remains fraught with tension and uncertainty as the future of the Gaza ceasefire and the investigations into the October 7th events hang in the balance.

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