Netanyahu appoints Guy Markizeno as military secretary after Mossad reshuffle

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promoted Brig.-Gen. Guy Markizeno to serve as his new military secretary. This appointment comes shortly after Netanyahu moved the previous military secretary, Roman Gofman, to lead the Mossad intelligence agency. Gofman's appointment to the Mossad had received clearance from the High Court of Justice earlier in the week.

The military secretary plays a crucial role, often being the first to receive reports on behalf of the prime minister and remaining close to him to provide immediate advice during crises. The IDF had submitted multiple candidates for the position, but Netanyahu reportedly delayed his decision for several days, according to IDF sources speaking to The Jerusalem Post.

Markizeno's move to the prime minister's office could potentially resolve another personnel issue concerning the US defense attaché post. Since December 2025, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir has sought to have Brig. Gen. Tal Polites appointed to this position, which has been vacant with only an acting chief. Defense Minister Israel Katz had previously shown resistance to Polites taking the post, preferring his own secretary, Markizeno, for the role.

While IDF sources were uncertain at press time whether Katz had withdrawn his veto of Polites, Markizeno's departure from his role as secretary to Katz might clear the path. Markizeno has a varied background, having served as deputy head of the navy, commander of the elite Navy SEAL unit Shayetet 13, and previously as secretary to former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. His earlier commands include artillery units and planning roles within the infantry command and northern command.