PM, defense minister want Halevi to step down at end of Lebanon ceasefire implementation — report

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz want IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi to step down over his responsibility to prevent Hamas’s October 7 massacre by the end of the implementation period for the ceasefire in Lebanon, the Kan public broadcaster reports.

Citing unnamed diplomatic and security sources as well as cabinet ministers, Kan reports the premier and defense minister seek to replace Halevi upon the end of the 60-day transition period.

Defense Minister Director-General Eyal Zamir, Deputy IDF Chief of Staff Amir Baram, Strategy Directorate of the IDF General Staff head Eliezer Toledano, or IDF Northern Command chief Ori Gordon are listed in the report as possible replacements.

The ceasefire sets out a 60-day transition period, during which the IDF will withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese Army will deploy some 5,000 troops south of the Litani River, including at 33 posts along the border with Israel. Hezbollah is banned from operating south of the river, several kilometers from the border.

The US has also reportedly provided a side letter specifying Israel’s right to respond to any violations of the ceasefire.