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IDF Chief Zamir Proposes Reforms Following October 7 Failures

IDF Chief Zamir Proposes Reforms Following October 7 Failures

IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir has proposed significant reforms in response to the failures observed during the events of October 7. The proposed changes focus on enhancing the readiness of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) by increasing troop presence at the borders, deploying more tanks, and reducing holiday vacations for military personnel. These measures are aimed at addressing the shortcomings that were evident during the recent conflict and ensuring that the IDF is better prepared for future challenges. Lt.-Gen. Zamir's address to the nation came just hours before the anticipated release of hostages from Gaza, highlighting the urgency and importance of these reforms.

US lawmakers say Israel hasn't held to account those involved in 2023 strike that killed journalist

US lawmakers say Israel hasn't held to account those involved in 2023 strike that killed journalist

By Humeyra Pamuk WASHINGTON, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Four U.S. lawmakers on Thursday said there has been no accountability for an October 2023 attack by the Israeli military that struck a group of journalists in Lebanon, killing a Reuters correspondent and wounding others. U.S.

U.S. Lawmakers Demand Accountability for Israeli Strike on Journalists

U.S. Lawmakers Demand Accountability for Israeli Strike on Journalists

A group of Democratic lawmakers, led by Vermont Senator Peter Welch, is calling for accountability from the Israeli government following an incident in October 2023 where Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) shelling reportedly targeted journalists in southern Lebanon. The attack resulted in the death of Reuters video journalist Issam Abdallah, and injuries to AFP photojournalists Dylan Collins and Christina Assi. During a press conference at Capitol Hill, Senator Welch criticized the Israeli government's handling of the investigation, claiming that the preliminary review has been closed without a criminal investigation. The incident occurred during IDF operations against Hezbollah positions, and the Israeli Embassy has stated that no soldiers violated military rules of engagement. However, the Committee to Protect Journalists and other organizations have expressed concerns about the lack of accountability. Welch, along with other lawmakers, is urging the U.S. government to hold Israel accountable for what they de...

Israeli Defense Leaders Merge Probes into Military Failures Amid Air Force Leadership Uncertainty

Israeli Defense Leaders Merge Probes into Military Failures Amid Air Force Leadership Uncertainty

Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir have agreed to consolidate overlapping investigations into the Israeli military's failures during the October 7 Hamas attack. This decision follows a public dispute over the findings of a meta-investigation led by the Turgeman Committee, which highlighted shortcomings in the military's preparedness. The agreement includes the involvement of the defense establishment comptroller as an observer, particularly in the investigation of the Air Force's response and the potential promotion of Brig. Gen. Omer Tischler to Air Force commander. The Turgeman Committee's report concluded that while the Air Force met its operational requirements, it was unprepared for the surprise attack's scale, particularly regarding low-altitude threats. The decision to merge the probes aims to streamline the investigation process and address political tensions surrounding military appointments.

Israeli Defense Officials Consolidate Investigations into October 7 Attack Failures

Israeli Defense Officials Consolidate Investigations into October 7 Attack Failures

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir have agreed to consolidate investigations into the failures that led to the October 7 attack. The Defense Establishment Comptroller will join the investigative team as an observer, focusing on Hamas' 'Jericho Wall' document, which outlined the group's plan for a surprise invasion into Israel. The investigations will also cover the IDF Operations Directorate, the Israeli Navy, and the Air Force, including the role of Brig. Gen. Omer Tishler, who was the chief of staff of the Israel Air Force during the attack.

Israeli Defense Minister and IDF Chief Reach Partial Agreement on October 7 Probes

Israeli Defense Minister and IDF Chief Reach Partial Agreement on October 7 Probes

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir have reached a partial agreement regarding the investigations into the events of October 7, as well as several key military appointments. The discussions have been focused on resolving issues related to the appointment of the next Air Force chief and the defense attaché in Washington. The negotiations have been part of ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the October 7 incident, which has been a point of contention within the Israeli defense establishment. The agreement marks a step forward in resolving these disputes, although some issues, such as the fate of Tishler, remain unresolved.

Syrian Clashes with IDF During U.S. Ambassador's Border Tour Highlight Regional Tensions

Syrian Clashes with IDF During U.S. Ambassador's Border Tour Highlight Regional Tensions

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz, along with Israel's UN envoy Danny Danon, toured Israel's northern border, where they were briefed on regional threats. During their visit, a clash occurred between Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Syrian civilians near the border, involving stone-throwing and warning shots. The incident was related to an attempted arrest of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad operative. The ambassadors were not directly involved in the clash but were briefed on the situation. The tour included discussions on threats from Hezbollah and Iranian-backed groups, as well as criticism of recent UN Security Council reports on the region.

Israeli Military to Investigate Intelligence Failures in Hamas Attack

Israeli Military to Investigate Intelligence Failures in Hamas Attack

Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has initiated an investigation into the Israeli military's failure to anticipate and respond effectively to Hamas' attack plan, known as Operation Jericho Wall. The investigation will be led by Gen. (res.) Roni Numa and will include a team of senior reserve officers. The focus will be on tracing the path of intelligence that was lost by military analysts, which contributed to the failure. The team is expected to rely on detailed documentation to understand the roots of the failure, although there are concerns about whether they possess the necessary professional and intellectual capabilities to fully comprehend the situation.

IDF Reinforces Israel-Jordan Border Amid Threats from Iraqi Militias and Houthis

IDF Reinforces Israel-Jordan Border Amid Threats from Iraqi Militias and Houthis

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reinforced the Israel-Jordan border in response to threats from Iraqi militias and Houthi forces. The IDF has reoccupied old outposts along the Jordan Valley, a strategic move to prevent potential infiltrations. This comes after a shift in defense strategy following the October 7 Hamas attack, which highlighted vulnerabilities in Israel's border defenses. The IDF's new 96th Division Gilead is tasked with protecting the northern sector of the eastern border, while the Edom Division oversees the southern sector. The defense strategy includes a multilayered system with ground barriers and reoccupied outposts to provide observation and firepower. The IDF is also training reserve brigades, known as the 'David Brigades,' to enhance rapid response capabilities.

From Israeli-held zones in Gaza, foes of Hamas seek lasting role

From Israeli-held zones in Gaza, foes of Hamas seek lasting role

Dec 10 (Reuters) - Groups operating from Israeli-held areas of Gaza say they will continue to fight Hamas despite the killing of their most prominent commander, reporting more recruits since an October ceasefire as they eye a role in the enclave's future.

Researcher Suggests Israel Must Dismantle Hamas Independently

Researcher Suggests Israel Must Dismantle Hamas Independently

Dr. Harel Chorev, a senior researcher at the Moshe Dayan Center, has stated that Israel will likely need to dismantle Hamas on its own, as no external power appears willing to undertake this task. This perspective aligns with a broader strategy attributed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which involves allowing the U.S. to attempt various approaches before concluding that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) must take direct action. The statement reflects ongoing challenges in addressing the influence of Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the complexities of international involvement in the region.

Israel Signals Possible Offensive Against Hezbollah Amid Rebuilding Concerns and Awaiting U.S. Approval

Israel Signals Possible Offensive Against Hezbollah Amid Rebuilding Concerns and Awaiting U.S. Approval

Israel has expressed growing frustration over what it perceives as Lebanon's insufficient efforts to disarm Hezbollah, a group it considers a significant threat. Israeli officials have observed Hezbollah's rebuilding efforts across various fronts, supported by renewed financial backing from Iran, primarily through Turkey. Despite Lebanon's attempts to block direct flights from Iran, funds continue to reach Hezbollah. The Lebanese government, constrained by an economic crisis, struggles to disarm Hezbollah due to the group's potential for internal confrontation, which could lead to civil unrest. Israel is holding off on any major military action while awaiting approval from U.S. President Donald Trump, who is focused on maintaining regional peace. The U.S. has urged Israel to allow Lebanon more time to demilitarize southern Lebanon, but Israel remains skeptical of Lebanon's ability to meet the disarmament deadline.