IN PICTURES: New Israeli military chief sworn in

Israel has sworn in a new military chief of staff who is taking over command of the country’s armed forces amid a tumultuous period in the region.

Gadi Eisenkot has been promoted to Lt Gen, the military’s highest rank.

He succeeds Benny Gantz, whose four-year-term expired, as Israel‘s 21st military chief.

Lt Gen Eisenkot held key posts during a three-decade military career and developed a level-headed reputation during a war against Hezbollah in 2006.

Lt Gen Eisenkot takes the reins following the Gaza war last year and amid tensions on Israel‘s border with Lebanon and Syria, as well as simmering tensions in Palestinian territories after peace talks collapsed.

Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Lt Gen Eisenkot he won’t have “a single day of grace,” pointing to Iran and regional upheaval as challenges he faces.