Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai appointed next IDF deputy chief of staff

Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai has been selected as the next deputy chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, a move that comes at a critical time for Israel’s military leadership. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the appointment on Friday, confirming that Yadai will step into the role at the end of the month, succeeding Maj. Gen. Amir Baram. He will serve under the incoming IDF chief of staff, Maj. Gen. (res.) Eyal Zamir, who is set to take command on March 5.

“I am convinced of Maj. Gen. Yadai’s ability to make a significant contribution in the role of deputy chief of staff to reinforce the IDF’s strength in force buildup and offensive capabilities in the face of the many security challenges we face these days,” Katz stated.

Yadai, 55, brings decades of experience to his new position. A veteran of the elite Golani Brigade, he commanded the unit in 2005, including during the Second Lebanon War. His extensive leadership career includes key roles such as head of the 80th Edom Regional Division, commander of the IDF’s West Bank division, and chief of Home Front Command during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. In his most recent role, he led the IDF Ground Forces, overseeing operations amid the ongoing war that erupted on October 7, 2023.

His appointment comes as the IDF undergoes a major transition in leadership. Outgoing Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi announced his resignation following the military’s failure to prevent the October 7 Hamas attack, setting off a series of high-profile changes within the army’s top ranks. Yadai was among the three finalists considered to replace Halevi, alongside Baram and Zamir, with the latter ultimately selected for the role.

As Zamir prepares to take command, he will be tasked with appointing numerous senior officers, filling vacancies that have remained in limbo amid recent upheavals. Several top commanders are also expected to step down in the wake of October 7, following Halevi’s example.

Amid ongoing military operations and persistent security threats, Yadai’s experience and leadership will be vital in ensuring the IDF remains prepared for the challenges ahead. His appointment signals a continued focus on strengthening Israel’s defensive and offensive capabilities in a volatile region.

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