IDF deputy chief of staff requests to step down, indicates he hopes to succeed army head Halevi

IDF Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Amir Baram has notified Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi that he will finish his role as planned at the end of February.

Several months ago, Baram was asked to extend his two-year tenure by an additional six months due to the ongoing war.

In a letter to Halevi, Baram says since the intensity of the war “decreased significantly,” he feels his ability to contribute as deputy chief of staff is limited.

Therefore, Baram says he has no intention to serve as deputy chief of staff for any longer.

Baram says he is requesting to end his role at the end of February as planned, which would be two and half years from when he began the position.

“Of course in the future, I will be willing to fill any role required in the defense establishment,” Baram adds in his letter, hinting that he is planning to run for chief of staff.

The IDF says that Halevi and Baram discussed the matter, and Halevi “expressed his appreciation for the deputy’s important work during the war and in general.”