Reserve Colonel Calls for IDF Chief of Staff's Dismissal Over Political Agenda

Reserve Colonel Ronen Cohen sharply criticized IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi in a radio interview on Tuesday, accusing him of pursuing a deliberate political agenda against the Israeli government. Speaking with Avi Ratzon on Galei Yisrael radio, Cohen alleged that Kochavi consistently opposes government policies and uses military decisions to influence public opinion, citing Kochavi's resistance to occupying Gaza and his handling of the humanitarian city issue as examples. Cohen also hinted at political interference behind the scenes in northern Israel, mentioning undisclosed meetings related to the Lebanese front. He described Kochavi as a full-fledged politician and expressed that Brigadier General Chico Tamir would have been a more suitable choice for Chief of Staff. When asked if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should immediately order Kochavi's dismissal following the letter Kochavi sent opposing the government, Cohen agreed it was necessary but advised a strategic delay until after upcoming elections, suggesting preparations should begin now. Cohen's comments highlight growing tensions between the military leadership and the political echelon amid ongoing security challenges.