IDF said to rebuke officer who released damning probe on Gaza operation, but no formal censure

IDF troops operating in the Gaza Strip, in images published on July 26, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)
IDF troops operating in the Gaza Strip, in images published on July 26, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)

After an IDF document claiming that Operation “Gideon’s Chariots” failed to meet its objectives was released to the media, Hebrew media reports that the IDF Ground Forces commander, Maj. Gen. Nadav Lotan, met yesterday with Brig. Gen. (res.) Guy Hazut, the officer apparently responsible for preparing and distributing the presentation.

Hazut had reportedly circulated the slides — which were shown to reservist brigades without official approval — warning that the IDF had failed to learn the necessary lessons ahead of implementing the cabinet-approved plan to conquer Gaza City, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots B.”

The IDF reportedly expressed anger at Hazut for adding his personal opinions to the presentation without authorization, but chose not to formally punish him.

A senior official told Israel Hayom that part of the reasoning was avoiding the appearance that the military “cannot accept criticism.”

However, reports claim Hazut was reprimanded by the military, resulting in his issuing an apology for his actions.

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