Defense Minister Katz Attacks Eisenkot Over Security Decision-Making

Defense Minister Israel Katz launched a sharp verbal assault on MK Gadi Eisenkot, refuting Eisenkot's calls for restraint during the transition period and asserting the government's sole authority over security decisions. Katz stated that the government does not require approval from the opposition or legal bodies to conduct military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, or to carry out counter-terrorism activities in Judea and Samaria. He emphasized that Israel's security is not in transition and does not await political processes, affirming that the current government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is responsible for all security decisions.

Katz also addressed concerns regarding Iran, assuring that the government has demonstrated decisiveness and discretion in coordination with the IDF and will continue to do so as needed. He reiterated that there is "one prime minister, one defense minister" guiding the IDF and one government responsible for Israel's security and the protection of its citizens.

Earlier, Eisenkot had written to Netanyahu, who he described as a "transition prime minister" lacking Knesset confidence, urging him to exercise extreme caution in security and national decision-making. Eisenkot warned against the "introduction of foreign considerations into the sanctum sanctorum of Israeli security" and cautioned against the unnecessary use of security forces, which he argued could have devastating consequences for Israeli democracy and public trust.

Eisenkot demanded that Netanyahu demonstrate national responsibility, restraint, and caution regarding dangerous moves that could await the swearing-in of a new government. He also requested that Netanyahu not place security chiefs in a difficult constitutional conflict. The Prime Minister's Office responded by rejecting Eisenkot's claims, stating that all decisions made under Netanyahu were based solely on security considerations in full coordination with the security establishment and have led to unprecedented achievements. The office accused Eisenkot of irresponsibly discussing sensitive security matters publicly and attempting to politicize national security issues.

Eisenkot subsequently questioned why Netanyahu refused his request for an official operational update and attempted to delay the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee meeting. He vowed not to allow a vacuum in oversight of a government that has lost Knesset confidence and pledged to ensure security considerations are paramount. In parallel, Eisenkot appealed to the Attorney General to order Netanyahu to provide him with security updates.