Likud Officials Shocked by Israel Katz’s Handling of Military Appointment Controversy

Senior Likud members expressed strong disapproval of Defense Minister Israel Katz following his public remarks about the dismissal of Major General Avi Blot. Katz created the impression of an immediate removal during a live broadcast, which angered party officials who criticized the timing and manner of the announcement amid an election period. They argued Katz should have clarified earlier that the appointment process had started previously and that no immediate dismissal was intended. After Katz issued a clarification, some officials acknowledged the situation was less severe than initially perceived but maintained that the communication was mishandled.

The controversy centers on Katz’s escalating conflict with IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, particularly regarding the appointment of Dado Bar Kalifa as the Prime Minister’s military secretary. Katz claimed Zamir attempted to block Bar Kalifa’s appointment and that the nomination was part of a broader effort to prevent Bar Kalifa from assuming the military secretary role. Katz stated he interviewed Bar Kalifa in May at Zamir’s request as part of the appointment process.

Katz sharply criticized Zamir after the IDF spokesperson said Katz’s comments were not coordinated with the military and that no final decision had been made, noting other candidates were still under consideration. Katz countered that Bar Kalifa was the sole candidate recommended by Zamir and that Zamir himself requested the early interview to approve the appointment. The dispute highlights tensions between the Defense Minister and the military leadership during a politically sensitive period.

The developments unfolded on August 4, 2026, with the media coverage focusing on the political and military implications of the appointment saga within the Likud party and the IDF.