Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter Criticizes Defense Minister Katz Over Live Dismissal of Central Command Chief

Retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter sharply criticized Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday following Katz's live announcement of the replacement of Central Command Chief Major General Avi Blot. Winter condemned the manner in which Katz handled the event, stating it severely damages public trust in both the defense establishment and the political leadership. He emphasized the importance of authority and responsibility in managing the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Winter defended Major General Avi Blot, highlighting his significant efforts to implement Israeli sovereignty and protect settlements in the West Bank. He described Blot as one of the commanders most dedicated to these goals. Winter also clarified the legal and command status in the area, noting that the Central Command Chief acts as the sovereign's representative in Judea and Samaria under Israeli law.

The controversy arose after Katz announced on Channel 14 that Dudu Bar-Kalifa would replace Blot. Winter criticized Katz for bypassing formal military procedures and making the dismissal public without prior coordination, saying, "The Defense Minister of Israel does not fire a general live on air. If you have criticism, summon him for a hearing. This is not the way to build public trust."