Eyal Zamir Takes on Role of Chief of Staff of IDF
Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir has officially assumed the role of Chief of the General Staff, succeeding Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi. The formal change of command ceremony took place at the IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv on March 5, 2025.
Eyal Zamir, 59, brings to the position a wealth of experience from his 38-year military career. Notably, he is the first tank officer to serve as Chief of Staff since Lieutenant General David “Dado” Elazar in the 1970s. His extensive service record includes commanding the 7th Armored Brigade, leading the Southern Command, serving as Deputy Chief of Staff, and acting as the Military Secretary to the Prime Minister.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed strong support for Zamir’s appointment, highlighting his dedication and offensive strategic approach. Netanyahu stated, “Even when he served as my military secretary, I was impressed by Eyal Zamir’s dedication to the country and the IDF, as well as his offensive strategic approach.”
Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity of a strong and victorious army under Zamir’s leadership. Katz expressed confidence in Zamir’s ability to guide the IDF wisely, implement lessons from past challenges, and strengthen the military.
In his inaugural address as Chief of Staff, Zamir underscored his commitment to leading the IDF to victory. He called upon all segments of Israeli society to participate in the defense of the homeland, emphasizing that the IDF is the army of the people and that defensive missions must be shared responsibilities. Addressing the families of hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza, Zamir affirmed the moral duty to bring everyone back home as quickly as possible.
Zamir assumes command at a critical juncture, with the IDF facing numerous challenges, including ongoing negotiations for hostage releases, potential renewed fighting in Gaza, and coordination with the United States regarding possible actions against Iran. His leadership is anticipated to steer the IDF through these complex issues, with expectations of significant achievements that could reshape the region’s dynamics.
The transition in military leadership comes in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which led to the resignation of former Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. Halevi acknowledged the need for a state inquiry into the events, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root problems to facilitate necessary corrections.