We will not allow our enemies to strengthen undisturbed. We will identify threats as they emerge and strike them with determination and force. Troops and commanders of the IDF, you are the heroes standing guard over the land, the shield spread over its civilians, and the sword raised against its enemies. It is a privilege and a source of pride for me, as Chief of the General Staff, to lead the army of Israel’s heroes.
We will carry with us the memory of the fallen and the lessons of October 7th, and build a future in which Israeli civilians live securely in their country. As the people’s army, we will continue to serve together, build the strength of the IDF ahead of the next tests still before us, preserve its values and spirit, and lead it to victory. We will ensure that this people, which has returned to its land, will never again be uprooted from it.
This is our duty to the fallen, our responsibility to Israeli civilians, and our oath to future generations. Am Israel chai. May the memory of the fallen be a blessing.”