“IDF Radio” (Galei Zahal) reports that the cabinet today approved Major General (res.) Gabi Ashkenazi as the 19th IDF chief of staff. Ashkenazi currently serves as director general of the Ministry of Defense. He left the IDF when Lt.-Gen. Dan Halutz was appointed chief of staff.
At the start of today’s cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert expressed his complete confidence in Ashkenazi’s ability to lead the IDF. “Ashkenazi is a great commander and leader, with an impressive record of service in the IDF over many years,” he said.
“I have no doubt that he will lead the IDF forward in meeting the challenges it faces, return full capacity and attain the essential achievements needed for Israel’s security. I take this opportunity to congratulate him even before the cabinet approves the appointment.”
Minister of Defense Amir Peretz said that the term of office for the IDF chief of staff should be extended to four years from three.
Ashkenazi is due to take up his post in ten days. The Tirkel committee for senior civil service appointments said, “Ashkenazi is highly worthy for the post of chief of staff, and has the capacity to bear the heavy burden of office.”
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on February 4, 2007
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2007