The head of the research division at the Amman, Brigadier General Amit Sa’ar, ends his position immediately

Lt. Col. Amit Sa’ar, one of the most senior officers in the Intelligence Division, announced today (Thursday) that he was forced to end his position due to a malignant tumor that requires immediate treatment. This was stated by the IDF spokesperson.

Sa’ar will be replaced in the coming months by Brigadier General Itai Baron, who accepted the assignment following the Chief of Staff’s request, pending a permanent appointment. Brigadier General Baron served as head of the research division between 2011 and 2015 and has been serving in the reserves in the research division since the outbreak of the war.

The IDF also stated: “General Sa’ar is an officer with many privileges, who contributed a lot to the security of the State of Israel, even in these days of war. The Chief of Staff, Major General Herzi Halevi, cherishes his many years of work in the IDF, and his work throughout his life for the security of the citizens of the State of Israel.”

Lieutenant Colonel (res.) Itay Baron (Photo: IDF Spokesman)

The retiring head of the Research Division, Brigadier General Amit Sa’ar, wrote in a letter to his men: “In recent years, leading the Research Division has been my life’s mission. In the last few months we experienced a deep shock, we did not live up to what was expected of us, and even before we clarified the first detail – I made it clear that in the world of values ​​in which I live, I intend to take responsibility.”

He also wrote, “In recent days, into the national upheaval, a personal upheaval has mixed in for me. I received news that I will have to deal with a health condition that will require me to end my duties immediately and concentrate all my forces to fight. I am confident that the responsibility will be given to worthy hands. I love you, I believe In you and always for you.”

It was also reported that today (Thursday) a discussion was held in the army regarding staffing for the position of head of the research division, and that the Chief of Staff, with the approval of the Minister of Defense, appointed Major General A to the position. The officer will be promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel and will take up the position in a few months. At this stage, he will fill his position under – General (res.) Itai Baron who accepted the assignment and agreed to carry the position during this complex period.

“The Chief of Staff, Major General Herzi Halevi”, it was said, “cherishes the many years of work of Brigadier General Amit Sa’ar in the IDF, and his work throughout his life for the security of the citizens of the State of Israel, and wishes him a speedy recovery.”