Colonel David Cohen Assumes Command of Samaria Brigade Replacing Colonel Ariel Gonen
Colonel David Cohen has officially taken over as commander of the Samaria Brigade, succeeding Colonel Ariel Gonen, who completed two years in the role and will continue his studies at the National Security College. The change of command ceremony took place at the Samaria National Park and was attended by senior Central Command officers, brigade commanders, soldiers, and their families. Cohen previously commanded the Golani Reconnaissance Unit during the "Sword of Iron" operation.
The ceremony was led by Central Command Chief Major General Avi Blot and Judea and Samaria Division Commander Brigadier General Kobi Heller. Heller highlighted the significance of the Samaria Brigade's operational and national role, linking the event to the themes of national unity associated with the period of Tisha B'Av. He praised Gonen for unprecedented operational achievements, including doubling counterterrorism activities and significantly altering the security landscape in the Nablus area.
Heller expressed confidence in Cohen's leadership, noting his successful command of Golani forces in Gaza and Lebanon, and his ability to lead the brigade forward with determination and prudence. Outgoing commander Gonen reflected on his tenure, emphasizing relentless efforts to thwart terrorism and create improved security conditions, expressing gratitude for serving in a place where Israel's history, present, and future converge.
Incoming commander Cohen accepted his new role with humility and a deep sense of mission, describing the Samaria Brigade as a unit with a proud heritage that exemplifies the connection between security, settlement, and values. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, underscoring the brigade's primary duty to protect Israeli citizens. Cohen referenced the October mourning events as a daily reminder of the importance of responsibility, readiness, and operational sharpness, expressing faith in his troops' ability to meet any challenge united as one.
