(JNS) Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir assumed the role of the Israel Defense Forces’ 24th chief of staff on Wednesday, March 5, delivering a solemn address emphasizing the gravity of his responsibilities.

Speaking at the IDF headquarters in Tel Aviv, Zamir said: “The mission is clear: to lead the IDF to victory. Hamas has not yet been defeated.”

He pledged to prioritize the return of all the hostages being held by terrorists in Gaza, saying, “We must bring our people home, by any means necessary.” He affirmed his commitment to defending Israel and uniting its citizens.

“The Jewish people are the people of the book, the people of the Torah—but also of action. I call on all parts of Israeli society to participate in the commandment of defending the homeland,” Zamir said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his gratitude to the outgoing chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi. “Thank you for your crucial role in our success after [the Hamas-led attacks on] Oct. 7, [2023],” said Netanyahu.

“I recommended you twice, and now, the time of Zamir has come. We worked together for over a decade as military secretary [to the prime minister]. I was impressed by you, by the Zionism that pulsates within you, and by your professional commitment,” he continued.

“Not only new insignia are placed on your shoulders, but also a very heavy responsibility. We are in the midst of a long war, a war of revival, that is being conducted on seven fronts, and its results will have significance for generations. You will lead the challenges of our excellent soldiers with momentum. I wish you all success,” Netanyahu said.