Recent reports following an announcement by Israel’s security agency, the Shin Bet, have identified former Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), Aviv Kochavi, as the targeted senior security official in an assassination plot by Hezbollah. The foiled operation involved a Klimagor explosive device, known for its remote detonation capability via a camera and cellular connection, which was intended to be used in the assassination.
Background on Aviv Kochavi
Aviv Kochavi is a prominent figure in Israel’s military establishment, having served as the Chief of Staff of the IDF from January 15, 2019, until January 16, 2023. Prior to this, Kochavi held several significant positions within the IDF, including Chief of Military Intelligence and Commander of the Northern Command, where he was responsible for overseeing military operations along the volatile northern border with Lebanon and Syria.
Born in Kiryat Bialik, Israel, Kochavi’s military career began when he volunteered for the Paratroopers Brigade, specifically Battalion 890. He quickly rose through the ranks, distinguishing himself as a capable and strategic leader. Kochavi went on to become a company commander and later held key positions such as Operations Officer of the Paratroopers Brigade and Commander of Battalion 101. His early military career is marked by involvement in various operations against Palestinian factions and his role in frontline paratrooper units.
Key Positions and Notable Military Actions
- Commander of the Gaza Division (2004-2006):
Kochavi served as the Commander of the Gaza Division, where he ordered operations targeting the infrastructure of Palestinian resistance factions. His tenure witnessed significant events like the 2005 Disengagement from Gaza and Operation Summer Rains in response to the kidnapping of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit by Hamas in 2006. Despite intensive military action, the operation was not successful in achieving its strategic goals, leading to criticism of his command. - Head of the Operations Directorate (2007-2010):
After his service in Gaza, Kochavi became the Head of the Operations Directorate in the IDF General Staff. This role involved planning and coordinating various military operations, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled military strategist. - Chief of Military Intelligence (2010-2014):
In 2010, Kochavi was promoted to Major General and appointed as the Chief of Military Intelligence. During his time in this role, he was responsible for intelligence assessments, counter-terrorism operations, and overseeing intelligence units’ strategic planning and operations. - Commander of the Northern Command (2014-2018):
Kochavi was later appointed Commander of the Northern Command, where he managed Israel’s military strategy against potential threats from Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iranian forces in Syria. His leadership during this period was marked by efforts to counter Hezbollah’s entrenchment near Israel’s northern border and prepare for possible large-scale confrontations. - Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces (2019-2023):
As Chief of Staff, Kochavi led the IDF through multiple operations, including escalations with Hamas in Gaza and strategic preparations for threats from Hezbollah and Iran. His tenure was characterized by efforts to modernize the IDF, enhance its digital and cyber capabilities, and reinforce Israel’s defense posture against evolving threats.
The Assassination Plot by Hezbollah
The Shin Bet’s announcement of a thwarted assassination attempt on Aviv Kochavi highlights the continuous threats faced by high-ranking Israeli officials, particularly from Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran and views Israel as its primary adversary. The plan to use a Klimagor explosive device—a sophisticated remote-detonated bomb—demonstrates Hezbollah’s ongoing strategy to target key figures in Israel’s security establishment. The group’s use of similar devices in previous incidents, such as the bombing attempt in Tel Aviv’s Yarkon Park in 2023, further illustrates its tactical approach to sow instability and fear.
The Shin Bet has been closely monitoring Hezbollah’s activities, including the network responsible for both the Yarkon Park attack and the recent plot against Kochavi. This continuous intelligence effort has allowed Israel to preempt potential threats and maintain a level of preparedness against such sophisticated attacks.
The targeting of Aviv Kochavi by Hezbollah underscores the risks faced by Israeli security figures and the ongoing conflict dynamics between Israel and Hezbollah. The Shin Bet’s proactive measures in uncovering and preventing these plots are vital for Israel’s national security, given the high stakes involved in the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict landscape. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains crucial for both Israeli authorities and international observers to stay vigilant against threats to stability and peace in the region.