“There is no place too far for the Navy,” Harel declared.

By The IDF Club

Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel assumed command of the Israeli Navy on Thursday, replacing Maj. Gen. David Saar Salama, who is stepping down after four and a half years in the role and 39 years of military service.

The handover ceremony was held at the Atlit naval base in the presence of IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, senior commanders, soldiers, and family members.

Zamir briefly addressed the broader security reality, saying Israel continues to confront existential threats and has acted “in unprecedented strength” against Iran and its proxies. “Anyone who dares to threaten us will pay a heavy price,” he said.

Salama, in his farewell remarks, called the role “the mission of my life,” reflecting on a 39-year career defined by “decisions of great consequence” and deep responsibility. “The memory of the fallen is our shared source of strength… it will remain our compass,” he added.

Incoming Navy chief Harel placed the focus squarely on the ongoing war and the Navy’s expanding role.

“With a deep sense of mission, and in light of the gravity of this moment, I take command of the Navy,” he said, describing the role as a return “to the place where I grew and to the people of the Navy.”

Reflecting on the current period between Israel’s national days of remembrance and independence, Harel said, “I think of the landscape of my homeland and the roots from which I grew — they are present here with me.”

He pointed to the transformation since October 7, saying, “We have risen from deep pain to extraordinary achievements across all arenas,” and described the current campaign as “a complex multi-front war with unprecedented successes.”

“We are changing the face of the Middle East,” Harel declared.

He emphasized the Navy’s operational reach and offensive posture. “Our ships and fighters will strike our enemies wherever they threaten the State of Israel, freedom of navigation, and our strategic assets at sea,” he said.

“There is no place too far for the Navy.”

Harel added that the Navy will “strengthen and project its power in attack alongside the other branches of the IDF,” operating “in near, distant, and global arenas” as a key strategic arm.

He concluded by honoring fallen soldiers and wounded troops, saying their sacrifice “allows us to live here and defend the state,” and expressing appreciation for those who “are no longer with us, but whose spirit continues to accompany us.”