Defense Minister Katz Slams Eisenkot's 'Undemocratic' Call to Security Chiefs

Defense Minister Israel Katz sharply criticized Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, on Wednesday, accusing him of making an "undemocratic and detached" statement. Katz's remarks came in response to comments Eisenkot made Tuesday night after polls closed, where he reportedly urged senior security officials to disregard directives from the political echelon, promising them his backing.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Katz described Eisenkot's speech as "embarrassing" and highlighted the specific statement he found most problematic: Eisenkot's appeal to senior IDF officials not to obey the directives of the Prime Minister and himself, or authorized security forums, "because they have his backing." Katz asserted this was an "undemocratic and detached" statement.

Katz further claimed that Eisenkot's words were not isolated but part of a deliberate political campaign. He alleged that Eisenkot and his colleagues had previously run a "false campaign" during the elections concerning supposed conflicts between the military and political levels regarding Iran. The Defense Minister emphasized the unity and cooperation between the political and military echelons, stating that the IDF has been a full partner in achievements against Iran and continues to be involved in all discussions, fulfilling all necessary decisions.

Eisenkot's remarks were made during a speech at his party's headquarters following the release of election exit polls. He declared Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be a "transitional prime minister without a mandate or trust." Eisenkot called on senior officials to "stand strong and firm against any attempt to challenge you," adding, "You have my clear backing." He also warned Netanyahu against using Israel's security for political purposes, stating, "Netanyahu, don't dare use Israel's security for your political needs." Eisenkot also proclaimed, "The era of evasion, failure, and lies is over," even before the full election results were known.