Amichai Segal Criticizes Defense Minister Katz Over Central Command Appointment

Defense Minister Israel Katz's announcement to appoint Major General Dado Bar Kalifa as the new commander of the Central Command has sparked significant controversy. Journalist Amichai Segal sharply criticized the decision and its timing, highlighting that the current commander, Major General Avi Blot, acted professionally and defended settlements effectively but was apparently sidelined due to not aligning with the Likud primary schedule. Segal described the move as "complete madness" and questioned the reaction if a similar replacement had occurred in the South Command under comparable political circumstances.

Segal also referenced Katz's own praise of Blot just eight months earlier, when Katz called him "the best Central Command commander in 20-30 years." He pointed out the stark contrast between that endorsement and Blot's removal live on air, attributing the change to political considerations linked to the upcoming Likud primaries. Segal warned against politicizing the military and turning it into a political spectacle for the Likud party.

The debate underscores tensions between military professionalism and political maneuvering within Israel's defense establishment, especially as elections approach. Katz's decision and Segal's critique highlight concerns about the influence of party politics on key military appointments.