TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Israeli Maj. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi has won unanimous Cabinet approval as the next chief of staff of the Israeli Defense Forces.
Ashkenazi, a reserve officer, succeeds Dan Halutz. Halutz, who resigned, was severely criticized over military performance during last summer's brief war against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
The newspaper Ha'aretz reported that Cabinet approval of Ashkenazi's nomination came Sunday and that Ashkenazi would serve a four-year term -- instead of the usual three with a one-year renewal option -- on the recommendation of Defense Minister Amir Peretz.
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, speaking at the opening of the Cabinet meeting, said Ashkenazi would "lead the IDF to full competency and achievements," according to Ha'aretz.
Ashkenazi reportedly told Peretz after the vote he realized the responsibility given him and hoped to justify the faith shown in his abilities.
