Defense Minister Katz Denies Calls to Oust Central Command Chief Amid Political Storm

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz dismissed allegations that he called for the dismissal of Central Command Chief Avi Blot during a recent interview, labeling the claims as "complete lies" and a politically motivated campaign against the government. Katz clarified that the appointment process for Avi Blot's successor, Major General Dudu Bar-Kalifa, had been underway for months prior to the interview. He cited reports from April and July indicating that the Chief of Staff had recommended Bar-Kalifa for the position well before Katz's public comments.

During the interview on Channel 14's "Patriots" program, when a participant called for Blot's removal, Katz immediately and firmly responded "no," emphasizing that no decision was made as a result of the interview. Katz accused political opponents, particularly former Deputy Chief of Staff Yair Golan, of attempting to shift the focus from real security concerns to a media controversy. Katz warned that if Golan were to become defense minister, there is a risk of reinstating old military leadership approaches that could harm Israeli settlements and national security. Katz concluded by asserting that under his tenure, such outcomes have not occurred and will not happen.

This statement comes amid heightened political tensions surrounding military appointments and government stability in Israel. Katz's remarks aim to reaffirm his control over defense decisions and counter narratives suggesting instability or political interference in military leadership.