IDF Commander of Gaza Division Steps Down After October 7 Lapse

Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld, the commander of the Israel Defense Forces’ Gaza Division, has announced his resignation, citing his failure to protect southern Israel during the surprise attack on October 7, 2023. The resignation marks a significant moment of accountability within the IDF, as Rosenfeld steps down from his position following the devastating events.

In his resignation letter, Rosenfeld expressed deep remorse over the inability to safeguard the Gaza envelope. "I failed in my life’s mission to protect the [Gaza] envelope. Everyone has to take responsibility for their part, and I am the one in charge of Division 143," he wrote. The attack, which coincided with Simchat Torah, caught the nation off guard and led to the tragic loss of 1,200 Israeli lives, mostly civilians, and the abduction of more than 240 people, with 120 still in captivity.

Rosenfeld detailed the chaos and the division’s struggle to defend the settlements, the thousands of residents, and the attendees of the party at Kibbutz Re’im. "For many hours, we were unable to protect the settlements, the tens of thousands of residents, the thousands celebrating at the party in the [Kibbutz] Re’im parking lot, and the forces in the outposts against the thousands of terrorists," he acknowledged.

The general's letter conveyed the profound impact of the attack on his conscience, as he carries daily the weight of the losses suffered by both civilians and IDF soldiers. Despite his resignation, Rosenfeld affirmed his belief in the justice of Israel’s ongoing fight. "Israel is fighting the most just war of our generation," he declared, voicing confidence in the IDF’s resolve to continue its mission until achieving a "fundamental change" in the security landscape, ensuring no armed terrorists remain on Israel's border.

Rosenfeld expressed a hopeful vision for the future, predicting that the Jewish communities in the region would "grow, expand and flourish" once more. He acknowledged the long and difficult journey ahead but maintained that eventual victory would be Israel’s. "It sounds far, it will be long and difficult—but it will be our victory," he concluded.

The resignation of Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld underscores the challenges and responsibilities faced by the IDF in ensuring the safety and security of Israel's borders. As the nation continues to confront these threats, stories of resilience and accountability highlight the ongoing efforts to protect and strengthen the state of Israel. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on Israel’s fight for security and peace.