Defense Minister Katz denies calling for IDF commander's dismissal amid political row

Defense Minister Israel Katz has vehemently denied allegations that he called for the dismissal of IDF Central Command chief Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth, labeling the claims as an "outright lie" and part of a political campaign against the government. Katz asserted that the appointment process for Maj.-Gen. Dado Bar Khalifa to the Central Command had been ongoing for months, refuting suggestions that any decision stemmed from a recent interview.

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During a Channel 14 interview, Katz stated that when a participant suggested dismissing Bluth, he immediately responded with a clear "No." He further questioned the potential consequences if Yair Golan were to become defense minister, expressing concern about the appointment of figures associated with the "old conceptzia" who could harm the settlement enterprise and Israel's security.

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This is not a genuine controversy but rather a media attempt to divert attention from the real question: What would happen if Yair Golan, who has already threatened to dismiss [Shin Bet chief] David Zini, were to become defense minister in a government led by Gadi Eisenkot?

Katz's office released a statement indicating that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir had recommended Bar Khalifa for the position as early as April, and Katz had interviewed him in June. However, the IDF stated that Zamir does not intend to remove Bluth at this time and that any such decision would require Zamir's approval. Katz also accused Bluth of being overly harsh in combating Israeli settler violence while neglecting the fight against Palestinian terrorism from the West Bank.

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In such a scenario, there is concern that figures associated with the old "conceptzia" would once again be appointed, something that could harm the settlement enterprise and Israel's security," Katz said. "That did not happen under my watch, and it will not happen.