Netanyahu Ultimatum to Minister Katz Over Land Authority Chief

A significant internal conflict has erupted within the Israeli government over the leadership of the Israel Land Authority (ILA), potentially altering coalition dynamics. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly opposed the potential dismissal of Yehuda Eliyahu, the acting head of the ILA. However, Housing and Construction Minister Haim Katz intends to proceed with a hearing regarding Eliyahu's removal.

The dispute became public when Katz summoned Eliyahu for a pre-dismissal hearing. In response, the Likud party issued a statement on behalf of Netanyahu declaring, "He will not be fired." Netanyahu emphasized his approval of Eliyahu as acting ILA head and highlighted the importance of his work, particularly in the Negev and Galilee regions.

Despite the prime minister's intervention, Minister Katz has stated the hearing will proceed, with a final decision to be made after reviewing criticisms of Eliyahu's performance. These criticisms include alleged issues with personnel management, staff conflicts, treatment of women within the authority, and insufficient cooperation regarding permanent employee rights. Eliyahu's associates, however, suggest the conflict stems from efforts to maintain the ILA's professional independence and prevent political interference in its appointments.

The dispute has broader political implications, as Eliyahu is associated with the national-religious camp and organizations focused on settlement development. His potential removal affects the government's relationship with this political bloc, particularly concerning land policy in the Negev and Galilee. Minister Katz maintains that even with a leadership change, the policy of strengthening Jewish presence in these areas will continue, framing the conflict as primarily about management quality and ministerial authority.

The situation is further complicated by Katz's position as chairman of the Likud's central committee, granting him considerable influence within the party. Some government sources suggest Katz's ministry was a temporary political arrangement, while Netanyahu's supporters accuse Katz of seeking to retain influence over ILA appointments. Katz's camp denies these accusations. The upcoming hearing is now a critical juncture, with Netanyahu having publicly stated Eliyahu will remain, while Katz signals he does not view the prime minister's words as a final decision.