Haifa, Israel - August 21, 2025 IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi visited the Israeli Navy on Thursday, meeting with Navy Commander Vice Adm. David Saar Salama, senior officers, and commanders at the Navy’s training base and later at the Haifa Base. The visit included discussions on naval operational challenges, lessons learned from the ongoing conflict, and a presentation of naval capabilities, including the submarine flotilla. During the visit, the Chief of Staff emphasized that Israel is engaged in a multi-front war — at sea, in the air, and on land — and is entering the second phase of Operation “Merkavot Gideon.” He stated that the IDF has struck deeply at Hamas, pushed threats away from the border, and created conditions for the potential release of hostages. Halevi praised the Navy’s achievements in “Operation Iron Swords,” noting its critical role in defending Israel’s maritime borders, protecting strategic assets, and supporting ground forces with precise firepower. He also highlighted the Navy’s covert operations across the Middle East, which inflicted significant damage on adversaries. Addressing the sailors and commanders, he urged them to continue innovating, thinking critically, and carrying out their unique missions with excellence.