The Israeli government on Sunday approved Maj.- Gen. Benny Gantz the Israel Defense Forces' 20th chief of General Staff.
Gantz was proposed as chief of staff the last week after former OC Southern Command Maj.-Gen. Yoav Galant's nomination was withdrawn over allegations he illegally seized land next to his home.
"Maj.-Gen. Gantz is an outstanding officer, an experienced commander and is endowed with all of the qualities needed to lead the IDF," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the appointment, adding that it would "lend stability to the IDF, something which is particularly important at a time when deep shocks are reverberating throughout the region."
Gantz will assume office on Monday following a ceremony with outgoing Chief of General Staff Gabi Ashkenazi.
TEL AVIV, February 13 (RIA Novosti)
