IDF Chief of Staff Backs Central Command Chief Appointment Amid Promotion Delays

Defense Minister Israel Katz has approved the recommendation of IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir to appoint Maj. Gen. Dudo Bar-Klipa as the next commander of the Central Command. This decision comes despite Zamir's recent declaration that he would postpone key appointments until 2027 due to upcoming elections. Katz, however, favored appointing Bar-Klipa to the role immediately.

Sources indicate that Zamir's decision to proceed with Bar-Klipa's appointment was influenced by pressure within the IDF to advance dozens of colonel-level (aluf mishne) positions. These promotions are crucial for officers to plan their families' futures regarding housing and education, and to prevent a bottleneck in senior command. Zamir apparently realized he wouldn't get Katz's approval for these numerous promotions if he adhered to his own delay policy.

By appointing Bar-Klipa, Zamir effectively paved the way for the approval of approximately fifty colonel-level appointments. The article notes that with Bar-Klipa's move to Central Command, the Chief of Staff and Defense Minister will soon need to select his replacement as head of the Manpower Directorate (AKA).

Several senior officers, including Maj. Gens. Yaki Dolf and Dan Goldfus, along with several brigadier generals, are reportedly awaiting senior postings. The article suggests that Zamir's earlier statement about delaying senior appointments has become irrelevant.

The Defense Ministry stated that Zamir had recommended Bar-Klipa for the Central Command role in late April and requested Katz interview him. Katz conducted the interview in June and was reportedly impressed, deeming Bar-Klipa the most suitable candidate. Katz confirmed he decided to advance the appointment in accordance with procedures.