Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi condemned what he deemed interference in his powers by government members regarding the appointment of new officers. This comes after Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich urged Netanyahu to halt the appointments, considering it dangerous during wartime.
Israeli media reports highlighted the disagreements that erupted during a Cabinet security meeting last night between Smotrich and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over the military's decision to carry out a round of promotions. According to Yedioth Ahronoth, Gallant accused Smotrich of trying to turn the military into a politicized force. He stated, "I will not allow anyone to turn the army into a militia serving one party or another."
Israeli broadcasting authority noted that Smotrich continued his attacks on Halevi during the meeting, asserting that "the Israeli army and its chief have failed not only tactically and operationally but also theoretically." Halevi insists on proceeding with a campaign of appointments involving dozens of new officers, including two in sensitive positions directly related to the Gaza war. According to Israeli sources, this concerns the Intelligence Officer for the Southern Command and the head of the Coordination and Liaison Administration, responsible for facilitating aid into the Gaza Strip.
