Israel Katz Names Dado Bar Kalifa as New Central Command Chief, Replacing Avi Blot

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced in a television interview that Major General Dado Bar Kalifa will replace Major General Avi Blot as the commander of the Central Command. Katz stated that the appointment was made based on the recommendation of the Chief of Staff. The announcement came earlier than expected, as Blot only assumed the position in July 2024. Blot's predecessor, Yehuda Fox, served in the role for three years.

Katz made the declaration on Channel 14 following a recent dispute involving Blot. Last week, Blot challenged a decision by Katz to accept an appeal against a restrictive order issued to Tal Yinon Dardik, who is suspected of abusing Palestinians. Dardik is currently held in a detention cell and is on a hunger strike. The restrictive order allows for the limitation or denial of rights to an individual due to concerns over public safety.