Meet the new IDF Operations Directorate Chief, Brigadier General Itzik Cohen 

Born in Israel in 1977, Cohen enlisted in the Givati Brigade in 1995, laying the foundation for a trajectory marked by leadership and strategic expertise. His journey through the ranks reflects a deep commitment to Israel’s security and a steady rise through some of the IDF’s most critical roles.

Cohen’s notable command positions began between 2009 and 2011 when he served as commander of the “Tzabar” Battalion (432) within the Givati Brigade. From 2011 to 2012, he transitioned to a strategic role as head of the Urban Warfare Branch at the Ground Forces Command headquarters. His leadership skills were further honed between 2012 and 2014 as commander of the Givati Brigade’s training and instruction base. From 2014 to 2016, he took charge of the “Yoav” Regional Brigade, followed by a stint as commander of the “Yehuda” Regional Brigade from 2016 to 2018. Returning to his roots, Cohen commanded the Givati Brigade itself from 2019 to 2021, cementing his reputation as a seasoned field leader.

In recent years, Cohen’s responsibilities expanded to divisional command. Between 2021 and 2023, he led the “Edom” Formation (Division 80), and since 2023, he has been at the helm of the “Steel” Formation (Division 162), a role he continues to hold until his upcoming transition to the Operations Directorate. His academic credentials are equally impressive, with a bachelor’s degree in government and strategy from the Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya and a master’s degree in political science from the University of Haifa. Cohen is also a graduate of the IDF’s Command and Staff Course and the National Security College.

A married father of four, Brig. Gen. Itzik Cohen brings a wealth of operational experience and scholarly insight to his new role, poised to shape the IDF’s strategic operations amid a complex security landscape.