Lt.-Col. Gadi Eisenkot. Photo: Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Gadi Eizenkot

IDF Chief of Staff

“Tense and challenging.”

That’s how Maj. Gen. Gadi Eizenkot, the new chief of staff for the Israel Defense Forces, characterized this period in Israel’s history.

He assumed control of the IDF during a time marked by myriad challenges: the potential for escalations in Gaza, concern over the unrest among Palestinians in the West Bank and the volatile situation on Israel’s borders with Syria and Lebanon.

“Under my command, the IDF will prioritize its readiness, its operational skills, and its ethical fortitude, so we may wield whatever force necessary in the defense of the Israeli public,” the deeply experienced Eizenkot said.

The outgoing IDF leader, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, told Eizenkot: “The IDF is yours to lead now. Make your mark on it with the love we know you have for this military and the responsibility required of the position. The public is lucky to have you as the leader of its defense forces.”