Aviv Kochavi is a retired Israeli general and prominent military figure who served as the 22nd (or 35th) Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces from January 15, 2019, to January 16, 2023, overseeing all military operations and appointments, including intelligence coordination and cyber operations and cyber defense during his tenure. Born on April 23, 1964, in Jerusalem, Israel, Kochavi joined the IDF in 1982 and rose through the ranks, beginning his service in the elite Paratroopers Brigade. He commanded various units, including the Paratroopers Brigade itself, and played key roles in operations during the First and Second Intifadas. His early career was marked by combat experience in Lebanon and Gaza, establishing him as a battle-tested officer known for strategic acumen. Kochavi's ascent continued with significant command positions, including head of the Gaza Division (2009-2010), where he oversaw operations amid escalating tensions; commander of the Northern Command (2014-2018), focusing on threats from Hezbollah in Lebanon; and director of Military Intelligence (2010-2014). These roles honed his expertise in intelligence and regional security. As Chief of Staff, he led the IDF through major escalations, including the 2021 Gaza conflict (Operation Guardian of the Walls), multiple rounds of hostilities with Hamas, and preparations for potential conflicts with Iran and its proxies. His tenure emphasized technological integration in warfare, including cyber operations, and readiness against multi-front threats. Post-retirement, Kochavi has remained an influential leader in Israeli security discourse, occasionally commenting on defense matters. He holds a bachelor's degree in philosophy from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. While his career is celebrated for operational successes, it has faced criticism, including allegations of insufficient preparedness during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack—though he had retired by then—and debates over military strategies in Gaza. Kochavi is married with children and resides in Israel.