IDF Chief of Staff Acknowledges Failure on 7/10 Anniversary

On the third anniversary of the October 7th Hamas attack, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir issued a special order of the day, acknowledging the military's failure to protect Israeli citizens. He stated that the IDF "failed in its supreme mission to protect the citizens of the State of Israel" and emphasized the army's obligation to investigate the events and ensure lessons are learned and applied.

Zamir's message, delivered on the state's official day of remembrance, also honored the victims, the fallen soldiers and civilians, and the bravery shown by those who fought. He vowed that the IDF would not allow Israel's enemies to strengthen unchecked and pledged to identify and strike threats decisively.

The order of the day detailed the atrocities of October 7th, describing the enemy's "fire, destruction, and ruin" sown across communities in the western Negev. It remembered civilians murdered in their homes, young people killed at a music festival, hostages who were murdered in captivity, and soldiers and security personnel who fell in battle. Zamir expressed solidarity with the wounded and the bereaved families.

He highlighted the heroism and unity displayed by Israeli society in the wake of the attack, with soldiers, reservists, and civilian employees of the IDF demonstrating immense dedication. Zamir asserted that this spirit is unbreakable and will lead to victory.

Two state ceremonies are being held to mark the anniversary. The first, managed by the Ministry of Defense, took place at 11:00 AM on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, attended by the President, Prime Minister, Defense Minister, Chief of Staff, Police Commissioner, heads of Shin Bet and Mossad, government ministers, and bereaved families. A second ceremony is scheduled for 2:00 PM at the Mount Herzl Memorial Site for Victims of Hostile Acts, also with state leaders present. Attendance at both events required pre-registration and confirmation.