Israel Katz Marginalized as Defense Minister Amid Political Struggles and Public Clashes

Israel Katz's appointment as Israel's Defense Minister was unconventional and fraught with tension from the start, reflecting a broader pattern where civilian politicians enter the defense establishment. Senior defense officials say Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu effectively sidelines Katz, acting as a de facto "super defense minister." Katz has been blocked from meeting key international figures and excluded from critical security discussions, with Netanyahu reportedly telling him, "Israel, not now," during attempts to engage with American officials.

The public conflict between Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir escalated recently, forcing Netanyahu to intervene and instruct Katz not to confront the military chief. Despite this, Katz focuses on producing self-promotional videos and statements rather than substantive security work, according to a senior defense source. Katz's office is described as politically driven with few professionals, prioritizing internal Likud politics over defense matters.

Katz's political ambitions are clear as he prepares for the upcoming Likud primaries, courting party members through social events and social media. His controversial live announcement of the dismissal of Central Command Chief Avi Blot, later clarified, sparked criticism from right-wing figures who viewed it as damaging to public trust and the settler community. Katz also intervened in military personnel matters, supporting figures aligned with his political base, further deepening his image as a partisan defense minister.

Within Likud, Katz is seen as a challenger to Netanyahu's leadership, having previously attempted to curtail Netanyahu's power in 2016 but now aligning closely with him to secure his political future. The internal party struggle continues, including disputes over primary election rules and legal battles involving party institutions. Katz's political maneuvers and strained relations with the military highlight the complex intersection of security and politics in Israel's current government.

Separately, political developments in the opposition include talks of MK Yoav Segalovitz joining the Ra'am party, potentially reshaping center-left coalition dynamics, with new polling showing significant support for relying on Ra'am from opposition voters, including those of the right-wing Israel Beiteinu party.