Katz states intent to replace head of IDF Central Command on live TV, IDF denies validity of move

Defense Minister Israel Katz publicly declared his intention to replace the head of the IDF's Central Command, Maj.-Gen. Dado Bar Kalifa, during a live interview on Channel 14's "The Patriots" program Sunday night. Katz stated that his decision stemmed from the current commander's handling of extremist settler violence in the West Bank.

However, the IDF swiftly responded, asserting that Katz's statement was not coordinated with IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. The military clarified that Zamir does not intend to remove the current commander from his post. Any such decision, the IDF emphasized, would require Zamir's approval and must follow established protocols.

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his decision was made due to Bluth’s handling of extremist settler violence in the West Bank.

The public announcement by the defense minister, bypassing the usual military chain of command, has created a significant point of contention. The IDF's firm denial and insistence on protocol highlight a potential rift in decision-making processes within the defense establishment.

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Katz’s statement was not coordinated with IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. The military stated that Zamir does not intend to remove Bluth from his position and that if any such decision is made, it will need approval from Zamir in accordance with required protocols.