Defense Minister Israel Katz Announces Live Replacement of Central Command Chief

In an unprecedented live broadcast on the program "The Patriots," Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the dismissal of Major General Avi Blot from his position as head of the Central Command. Katz declared that Major General Dado Bar-Kalifa would replace Blot as the new Central Command chief. Katz described Bar-Kalifa as part of the "generation of heroes and decisive leadership," noting that the Chief of Staff recommended him for the role.

The decision follows a personal interview Katz conducted with Bar-Kalifa after the Chief of Staff presented his candidacy about a week prior. Katz accepted the recommendation and initiated the appointment process. Bar-Kalifa, previously commander of the 36th Division during the recent Gaza war, is regarded within the military as a proactive and offensive leader.

His expected appointment is seen as significant due to the complex operational and political challenges facing the Central Command in the coming years. The military views Bar-Kalifa as capable of intensifying pressure on Arab terrorist organizations, continuing the policy of clearing terror camps, and strengthening security and settlements in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank).