Eyal Zamir Appointed as Israel’s New Military Chief Amid Ongoing Conflict

Israel has appointed Eyal Zamir as its new Chief of Staff at a critical juncture in its military history. A former tank commander and director of the defence ministry, Zamir replaces Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, who resigned following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. His appointment comes amid continued Israeli military operations in Gaza, rising tensions with Iran, and an increasing focus on West Bank security. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed confidence in Zamir’s ability to secure “absolute victory” against Hamas.

Key Highlights of Eyal Zamir’s Appointment

1. Background and Military Career

• Born in Eilat, Israel, with Yemeni and Syrian heritage.
• Joined the Israeli military in 1984, starting in the Armoured Corps rather than elite infantry units.
• Played a major role in the First and Second Palestinian Intifadas, leading combat and command roles.
• Commanded operations in Jenin refugee camp (2002), a key site of Palestinian militancy.

2. Key Leadership Roles

• Served as Netanyahu’s military secretary (2012-2015).
• Head of Southern Command (2015-2018), where he focused on neutralizing Hamas tunnels.
• Served as Deputy Chief of Staff (2018-2021) under Aviv Kochavi, overseeing a military modernization plan.
• Led significant Israeli defense procurements as Director of the Defence Ministry.

3. Strategic Military Challenges

• Tasked with ensuring Israel’s security and military dominance against Hamas and Iran.
• Advocates a tougher stance on Iran, having proposed offensive action against Iran’s nuclear ambitions in a 2022 policy paper.
• Overseeing the deployment of tanks in the West Bank for the first time in 20 years.

4. Role in the Current Israel-Hamas War

• Takes command at a time when Israel’s ceasefire with Hamas (effective January 19, 2025) remains fragile.
• Expected to lead efforts in “total victory” against Hamas, aligning with Netanyahu’s military vision.
• Credited with drafting a detailed plan to conquer all of Gaza during his tenure in Southern Command.

5. Leadership Style and Vision

• Known for being mission-oriented, detail-oriented, and strict.
• Described as a powerful figure, contrasting with predecessor Halevi’s reserved approach.
• Aims to restore public trust in the military following Israel’s security lapses on October 7, 2023.
• Advocates for Israel’s military self-reliance in defense planning and execution.