Israel's top general, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has resigned, citing security failures that allowed Hamas to attack Israel on October 7, 2023. His resignation marks the most significant departure among Israeli officials since the attack.

Resignation Follows Ceasefire Agreement

The resignation comes just days after a ceasefire was reached between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. In his resignation letter, Halevi admitted, "We did not fulfill our duty to protect the State of Israel under my leadership."

Short-Lived Tenure Ends Early

Halevi, who began his three-year term in January 2023, announced that his resignation would take effect on March 6, according to AP.

Details of the October 7 Attack

On October 7, 2023, thousands of Hamas militants launched a coordinated land, sea, and air attack on southern Israel. The assault led to the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of about 250. Over 90 captives remain in Gaza, with some feared dead.

Israel's Response to the Attack

In retaliation, Israel's military campaign in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 46,000 people, most of them civilians, as reported by Gaza's health ministry. The fighting has devastated Gaza, displacing its 2.3 million residents.

Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange

On Sunday, a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel took effect in Gaza. The agreement, set to last six weeks, involves the release of 33 hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. After a three-hour delay, three hostages and 90 prisoners were released as the ceasefire commenced.