Major General Aharon Haliva, the head of Israel's military intelligence, has resigned following the catastrophic intelligence failures that enabled Hamas to carry out its deadly 7 October attack.
Haliva, who led the Israel Defence Forces' (IDF) Intelligence Directorate, acknowledged his responsibility for the oversights that left the country unprepared for the assault, which killed over 1,200 people and saw hundreds taken hostage.
A Historic Intelligence Breakdown
The Hamas-led attack exposed glaring gaps in Israel's surveillance and early-warning systems. Despite Israel's reputation for sophisticated intelligence networks, militants breached the heavily fortified Gaza border with shocking ease, catching security forces off guard.
In his resignation letter, Haliva stated: "The Intelligence Directorate under my command failed to provide adequate warning. I carry that burden." His departure marks the first senior-level resignation over the security lapses.
Growing Pressure on Netanyahu's Government
The resignation intensifies scrutiny on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership. Opposition leaders and families of victims have demanded accountability at the highest levels of government.
Defence Minister Yoav Gallant accepted Haliva's resignation, praising his "38 years of dedicated service" while acknowledging the need for change. The IDF announced plans for a thorough investigation into the intelligence failures.
Ongoing Conflict and Regional Tensions
Haliva's departure comes as Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, which has reportedly claimed over 34,000 Palestinian lives according to local health officials. The conflict has sparked international condemnation and raised fears of broader regional escalation.
Analysts suggest this resignation may be the first of several as Israel reckons with its worst intelligence failure since the 1973 Yom Kippur War.
