Israel gets new defense chief of staff

JERUSALEM, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Israeli Defense Minister Amir Peretz chose Defense Ministry Director-General Maj. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi to replace Lt. Gen Dan Halutz as chief of staff.

The Jerusalem Post reported that the decision came after numerous meetings with officials and candidates.

Peretz will present his recommendation to Prime Minister Ehud Olmert Monday. A judicial committee will then review the candidate to determine if there are legal issues involved.

Olmert said he would work with Peretz to choose the best candidate for chief of staff. He praised Halutz for his years of dedicated service.

"We will still find the way for the government of Israel and state of Israel to thank him for his many years of service," Olmert said.