IDF Central Command Chief Ablut Hears Dismissal Live During West Bank Terror Policy Meeting

On Sunday evening, Major General Avi Blut, commander of the IDF Central Command, was informed of his dismissal by Defense Minister Israel Katz while attending an operational discussion on counterterrorism policies in the West Bank. The meeting involved Central Command officers and the Judea and Samaria Division, focusing on plans to dismantle terror networks. The announcement shocked those present, as the public dispute between Katz and Blut over the arrest order against Tal Yinon Dradik, suspected of abusing Palestinians, escalated unexpectedly to a live dismissal.

The IDF quickly distanced itself from Katz's declaration, emphasizing that only the Chief of Staff has the authority to dismiss senior officers. Security sources told ynet that from Blut's perspective, there is no change and he understands the political climate, but the statement has caused significant internal ripples within the command. The conflict had been anticipated following Katz's criticism of Blut two weeks prior, but the live televised dismissal caught many off guard, including reservist officers who questioned Blut's status.

The dispute centers on Katz's decision not to extend Dradik's administrative detention order, which restricts certain rights due to public safety concerns. Blut had appealed Katz's refusal to extend the order, but the timeline shows the appeal was submitted before Katz's announcement, and no detention actions were taken since. Central Command is currently managing a complex security situation after a series of recent attacks in the West Bank.

Reactions from West Bank settlers were sharply critical of Katz's move. Beit El Council head Shay Alon condemned the surprise dismissal as a serious mistake harming both the settlement enterprise and counterterrorism efforts, praising Blut's leadership amid heightened security challenges. Other local leaders and retired officers echoed support for Blut, highlighting his longstanding commitment to settlement security and accusing Katz of undermining public trust with his approach.

The controversy highlights tensions between military command and political leadership amid ongoing security challenges in the West Bank. Katz's dismissal of a senior IDF commander on live television has sparked debate over authority, procedure, and the impact on morale within the IDF and settler communities. The situation remains fluid as the military continues its operations in the region.