Likud MK Osher Shekalim Criticizes IDF Chief for Overstepping Authority on Draft Law

Likud Member of Knesset Osher Shekalim sharply criticized IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir for sending a warning letter about a severe shortage of 17,000 soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces. Speaking on 103fm radio, Shekalim argued that Zamir's intervention in the draft law exceeds his authority and disrupts proper governance. He emphasized that the military chief should operate strictly within the military framework and communicate directly with the political echelon, stating, "The Chief of Staff should be soldier number one and nothing more. He is not a legislator and should not set policy."

Shekalim further said that Zamir should express concerns privately to the Prime Minister rather than publicly, warning that such public criticism of lawmakers undermines the chain of command. When asked if Zamir should be removed for his letter, Shekalim replied that while he holds great respect for Zamir, in a properly functioning system, a chief of staff who attacks legislators should not remain in office. He stressed the need for the military to focus solely on defense and leave policymaking to elected officials, especially in light of lessons from the October 7 attacks.

Rejecting claims that the government ignores Zamir's warnings to preserve political survival, Shekalim called such assertions "nonsense." He acknowledged the need for more soldiers and supports achieving conscription and equality through consensus and acceptance of the ultra-Orthodox community. He blamed confusion over roles between military and political leadership for the failures on October 7, saying the military wrongly assumed it was running the country.

Shekalim also commented on internal Likud disputes over reserved spots on the party list, supporting renewal but opposing the large number of reserved slots. Reflecting on his recent Knesset term, he noted he is considered a trusted ally of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has submitted about 50 bills, with four becoming law. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of elected officials being responsive to the public rather than focusing on personal prominence.