Israel Katz Slams Gadi Eisenkot for "Undemocratic" Call to Military Leaders

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday attacked Gadi Eisenkot, head of the Yashar Party, for remarks made the previous evening. Eisenkot had urged senior security officials to remember they "serve the state" and described Benjamin Netanyahu's government as a transitional one lacking a mandate. Katz stated on the "X" platform that Eisenkot's call for senior IDF leaders to disregard directives from the Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and authorized security bodies, based on his support, was "undemocratic and detached from reality." Katz characterized Eisenkot's statements as part of a "false" campaign by the "change bloc" alleging political-military disagreements over Iran policy. He asserted that the IDF has been a full partner in confronting Iran and participates in all relevant discussions, committing to implement any decisions made. This exchange follows earlier reports of tension between Netanyahu and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir regarding alleged differences on Iran, which Netanyahu and Katz have denied, with Katz accusing the opposition of political exploitation. Eisenkot had previously criticized Netanyahu directly after election polls, stating the government had lost public trust and urging security leaders to maintain their operational independence and prioritize state interests, warning against the politicization of security matters.