New Commander Takes Helm of Bashan Division in IDF Northern Command
A change of command ceremony for the IDF's Bashan Division (210th) took place yesterday at the Nafah base, presided over by the commander of the Northern Command, Major General Rafi Milo. Brigadier General Sivan Bloch assumed command of the division, replacing Brigadier General Yair Palai, who led the unit for the past two years and is now heading for studies. The event was also attended by the commander of the Southern Command, Major General Yaron Asor, head of the Syria Directorate Major General Rasam Alian, head of the Shin Bet security agency David Zini, along with commanders, soldiers, and families.
Major General Milo stated at the ceremony that the army is committed to learning lessons from its failures and emphasized that the IDF will not permit hostile elements to establish themselves on the borders, will proactively act against enemy capabilities, and will not practice containment. Addressing the outgoing commander, Palai, Milo noted that during his tenure, the security situation in the Golan Heights improved, and the mission to protect the communities was achieved, albeit at a heavy cost of fallen and wounded soldiers.
Brigadier General Palai, in his remarks, recalled that the events of October 7th would soon be marked three years prior. He acknowledged that a sense of failure has accompanied commanders, and the army has operated from this perspective during two and a half years of fighting. Palai detailed the division's operations in Syria and Lebanon, pushing Hezbollah away from the border and seizing strategic areas within Syrian territory to prevent threats. He stated that during the fighting, the division tripled its area of operation and its strength, with new units established.
Palai also mentioned his nephew, Captain Shahar Gamla, who fell in battle in Lebanon about six months ago. The incoming commander, Brigadier General Bloch, highlighted the commitment to the security of Golan and Northern residents, stating the division's role is to enable a safe daily routine in the region. Bloch acknowledged his long acquaintance with Palai from their shared service in the Golani Brigade and thanked the command and the division's active and reserve soldiers for their trust and efforts.