IDF chief says army ‘not immune to criticism’

IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eiesnkot, responding to the 2014 Gaza war report, says the army is “not immune to criticism” and has improved its capabilities in the two and a half years since the conflict.

The military drew considerable denunciations in the State Comptroller’s Office report for not being adequately prepared to face the threat of Hamas tunnels.

However, Eisenkot says that any mistakes should not take away from the accomplishments and sacrifice of the soldiers in the conflict.

“The IDF learned its lessons, put together work plans and is constantly working to improve its operational capabilities on the Gaza Strip-front,” he says at an event honoring civilian employees of the military.

Eisenkot served as deputy chief of staff under Lt. Gen. (res.) Benny Gantz during the 2014 war.

From that vantage point he “saw up close IDF soldiers and officers in the ground, air and sea… with Benny Gantz leading them, working day and night to achieve fighting goals and bring security back to our country,” Eiesnkot says.

— Judah Ari Gross