TEL AVIV, Sept 13 (Alliance News): Brigadier General Yossi Sariel, the commander of the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) 8200 intelligence unit, has announced his resignation amid criticism for failing to prevent the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages.
Sariel’s resignation comes as part of a broader response to the tragic events, which many see as a major intelligence failure. In his resignation letter, Sariel expressed deep personal responsibility, stating he did not meet the expectations set for himself, his unit, or the nation.
“On October 7th at 06:29, I did not fulfill the task as I expected of myself, those at my command, and the citizens of the state I love so much,” the letter said.
Sariel has requested to step down at a time determined by his commanders, following the completion of initial investigative processes.
Following the attack, several high-ranking officials, including Shin Bet chief Ronan Bar, admitted shortcomings in the security measures and warnings leading up to the assault. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also faced criticism for his handling of the situation and for accusing security chiefs in a now-deleted social media post of failing to alert him.
In a May interview, Netanyahu acknowledged political and military failures, stating, “The government’s first responsibility is to protect the people. People weren’t protected. We have to admit that.”
