Incoming IDF Chief of Staff Avi Kochavi and outgoing IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot have requested an additional few weeks’ extension “to help with the orderly change of command,” according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also now holds the defense portfolio, and who said on Sunday that he agreed to the extension.
As a result, Eizenkot’s retirement date will be January 15.
Major-General Aviv Kochavi “is an outstanding commander who has been selected from among four exceptional officers,” said Netanyahu.
“He is a highly accomplished and esteemed commanding officer with extensive plans for innovation, and I am certain that he will bring the IDF to new heights. I am also certain that, like his predecessor, he will command the IDF in such a way as to meet the challenges before us.
“This is also an opportunity to thank Gadi Eizenkot for his dedicated and important service during a difficult period,” Netanyahu said. “We wish them both great success.”
