As Tel Aviv buzzes with rumors of backroom military reshuffling, IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari's next career move has become the talk of Israel's defense establishment. Army Radio dropped a bombshell Monday, reporting that Hagari - who's become the face of Israel's military during its war with Hamas - is eyeing two of the most influential positions in the IDF's top brass.
The career naval officer could either end up heading the military's Strategy and Iran Division or pack his bags for Washington as Israel's military attaché, according to military sources. Both roles would come with a promotion to Major General, marking another step up for the former commander of the elite Shayetet 13 naval unit.
But the IDF's press shop isn't having any of it. "Brigadier General Hagari isn't considering any position right now," a spokesperson insisted, adding there's no timeline for his departure from his current role.
The timing of the leak is also suspicious. With Israel into its second year of war against Hamas, Hagari has become a household name, delivering nightly briefings in his characteristic measured tone.
Before becoming the military's voice during wartime, Hagari served in operational roles, including a stint as Head of Naval Operations and serving as assistant to the IDF Chief of Staff. Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi is expected to make the final call on Hagari's next move in the coming months.
