Major General (Res.) Yoram Halevy was promoted to the rank of Major General today (Wednesday) in a ceremony held at “Rabin” Camp (The Kirya) led by the Minister of Defense, Israel Katz, and the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Aviv Kochavi. The ceremony was attended by members of the General Staff Forum, commanders, and Major General Halevy’s family. He is set to assume his role as Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories next Wednesday.
Minister of Defense, Israel Katz, said: “Yoram, you are entering a role during one of the most complex and sensitive periods the State of Israel has known – across multiple arenas, with the Gaza Strip at their center. Ahead of you lies much work, daily and uncompromising, facing security, civilian, and political challenges that will shape the region for years to come. Now, with the return of the last hostage, the hero Sergeant Major Ran Guili, may his memory be a blessing, the State of Israel will not relent from the missions that remain: the complete demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the absolute dismantling of the Hamas terrorist organization. This is a clear security and national objective – and we are committed to it to the end.”
“The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories bears a paramount national mission: to be a central axis connecting the government, the IDF, and the international community – to realize and implement the war aims, maintain Israel’s freedom of security operations, and ensure that every civilian or humanitarian move serves the security of the state and does not strengthen terrorism.”
“I am confident that you will lead this mission with responsibility, determination, and sound judgment – with a deep understanding that the struggle for security also passes through the civilian and international arenas, and no less so through an uncompromising stance on the interests of the State of Israel.”
The Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Aviv Kochavi, stated: “Over the past two years, the IDF has operated in an unprecedented reality – we have thwarted existential threats from several arenas and reshaped the map of the Middle East. In recent days, we have been monitoring developments in various sectors and strengthening readiness for defense across all arrays, by adapting forces and increasing operational capability for the complex challenges facing us.”
“Yoram, today you undertake that ancient command – to take what exists and improve it even further for future generations. Your son, Ward and Yoram, may his memory be a blessing, also chose the values of mission. He served as a combat soldier and officer in the Yamam and fell in operational activity near Tulkarm. Your choice to continue serving and acting for the security of the state, precisely in the shadow of pain – is highly commendable, and highlights the values of mission of the entire family.”
“Rassan, in this ceremony, it is important for me to note your exceptional contribution to the Israel Defense Forces as a courageous combat soldier and in your role as head of COGAT in recent years. You are a brave and determined commander who has influenced many, and for that, I have great appreciation.”
The incoming head of COGAT, Major General Yoram Halevy, said in his speech: “After 39 years of service, I return today to wear uniform and join the General Staff Forum of the IDF with reverence. In recent months, I have learned about the COGAT units, their missions, and the sensitivities of the role. In such a period, with great challenges in all sectors. With new mechanisms that are taking shape – the weight and importance of the unit are only growing. Alongside the complexities, there are also significant opportunities, and we must act towards them with determination, responsibility, and professionalism.”
“Before I gave a final answer for the position, I returned home and consulted with my wife, Vard. She asked me some difficult questions. And in the end, the answer I give myself is simple: just as I raised my children, and more than anything – my son, Ward – whose beret I now carry on my shoulder. When the country calls you to a mission, you stand up. As throughout my years of service, so now, one clear goal stands before my eyes: the security of the State of Israel.”
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