Herzi Halevi, Israel’s Chief of General Staff, described October 7, 2023, as a day when Israel failed in its mission to protect its citizens.
In a letter to soldiers marking the anniversary of the devastating attack, Halevi stated that the day should be remembered not only for the lives lost but as a moment for serious reflection and acknowledgment of their shortcomings, coupled with a commitment to learning from them.
The attack, carried out by Hamas and other extremist groups, resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people in Israel, with about 250 abducted and taken to Gaza as hostages. This incident triggered the Gaza war, which, according to Hamas-controlled health authorities, has claimed around 42,000 Palestinian lives, predominantly civilians.
Halevi mentioned that Hamas’ military wing had been defeated, but the fight against the terrorist organization’s structures would continue. He also noted that Hezbollah, active in Lebanon, had suffered significant damage during the conflict.
“We will not stop,” Halevi stressed. “We are dismantling our enemies’ capabilities and will ensure they are not rebuilt, so that an event like October 7 never happens again.”
