Netanyahu’s office announces the appointment of Gil Reich, deputy head of the National Security Council, as acting leader.
Published On 21 Oct 2025
Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Israel’s national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, according to Hanegbi’s own announcement and confirmation from the Prime Minister’s office, which revealed that Gil Reich, currently the deputy head of the National Security Council (NSC), will serve as the interim leader.
In a statement released Tuesday evening, Hanegbi acknowledged the change, saying, “Today, Prime Minister Netanyahu informed me of his decision to appoint a new head of the National Security Council. Consequently, my tenure as national security adviser and NSC head concludes today.”
The Prime Minister’s office promptly issued a statement confirming that Gil Reich will assume the role of acting head of the NSC. The statement also expressed gratitude towards Hanegbi for his three years of service, wishing him success and good health in his future pursuits.
Hanegbi’s exit was widely expected amid ongoing speculation about growing disagreements between him and Netanyahu regarding Israel’s military strategy in Gaza. Reports from Israeli media highlighted persistent friction, particularly Hanegbi’s resistance to a full-scale military occupation of Gaza City and his preference for negotiating a limited agreement with Hamas.
In his farewell message, Hanegbi emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive inquiry into the failures that led to the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, taking partial accountability himself. He stressed, “This grave failure must be thoroughly examined to ensure vital lessons are learned and to help rebuild the shattered trust.”
Despite calls for such an investigation, Netanyahu’s administration has yet to establish a formal commission, drawing criticism from opposition parties accusing the government of delaying accountability.
Gadi Eisenkot, former chief of the Israeli army and now an opposition figure, condemned Hanegbi’s removal on social media platform X, stating it reflects “a continued avoidance of responsibility by the Prime Minister and Cabinet members for the October 7 fiasco, replacing experienced officials with compliant followers.”
A seasoned Likud party member and close Netanyahu ally, Hanegbi was appointed national security adviser in 2023. His extensive political career includes various ministerial roles spanning public security, intelligence, and regional cooperation.
