IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi accepted responsibility for his role in failing to prevent the October 7 massacre during a Yom Hazikaron ceremony at the Western Wall on Sunday evening.

“As the commander of the IDF during war, I bear the responsibility for the failure of the IDF to defend our civilians on October 7th. I carry its weight on my shoulders daily, and in my heart, I fully understand its significance,” Halevi said as he bowed his head in tribute to the civilians and soldiers who died in the attacks.

Halevi further paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of IDF soldiers, who he said “strove for bravery, but did not seek death.” He praised their willingness to shoulder responsibility and undertake risky tasks to ensure the safety of many, calling them “heroes for the living, in the name of living.”

“We vow to do whatever is necessary to locate those missing in action and bring them back to their country. We vow never to forget our hostages – men, women, children and elderly, civilians and soldiers – and never to forsake our profound commitment for their swift return to their homes,” he said.

Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, is a solemn occasion to remember and honor fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism. The day is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made to defend the Jewish homeland from her enemies.