How the mighty have fallen

Families of October 7 victims slam IDF Chief's resignation: "Where's the call for an inquiry?"

As Herzi Halevi resigns, families of those murdered on October 7th push back: "Where's the call for answers?"

IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi at an event for outstanding soldiers as part of Israel's 76th Independence Day celebrations, at the President's residence in Jerusalem on May 14, 2024 ( Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

Tensions flared in Israel today as survivors' families and far-right politicians offered sharply different reactions to the military chief's resignation letter, highlighting deep divisions over the handling of the war's aftermath.

The October Families Forum, representing 1,100 families affected by Hamas's October 7 attack, criticized the resignation announcement for failing to address their key demand. "One crucial element was missing from the Chief of Staff's resignation letter – a call for a state commission of inquiry," the group said in a statement. "We won't rest until we get answers from both political and military leadership through a proper state investigation."

Meanwhile, far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir seized the moment to push for more aggressive military leadership. "The resignation was expected regardless of the war's progress," Ben Gvir stated, revealing he had earlier rejected an opportunity to claim credit for the military chief's departure. He called for the appointment of "an offensive and strong Chief of Staff who can defeat Hamas."

The competing responses underscore the growing pressure for accountability over the October 7 attacks and the subsequent war, as Israel grapples with its biggest military shake-up since fighting began.


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