In case of a long announcement to replace senior generals, the military refutes, Katz's office responds.
According to reporters, on the evening of the 2nd local time, Israeli Defense Minister Katz publicly accused the commander of the Israel Defense Forces Central Command, Avi Blot, during a live television program, and announced that his successor would be Major General Dado Bar Kalifa, the head of the IDF Manpower Directorate.
In the early hours of the 3rd, the Israel Defense Forces issued a statement refuting Katz's announcement on live television regarding the replacement of Blot, stating that the action was "not coordinated with IDF Chief of Staff Zamir." The IDF pointed out in the statement: "The IDF Chief of Staff Zamir has no intention of replacing commanders in key positions during this sensitive period. If the Chief of Staff makes such a decision, it will also be strictly approved according to established procedures."
In the early hours of the 3rd, the office of Defense Minister Katz issued a statement saying that the decision to appoint Major General Dado Bar Kalifa as the new commander of the IDF Central Command was based on a previous recommendation from IDF Chief of Staff Zamir.
It is reported that Blot has served as the commander of the IDF Central Command since July 2024. Typically, the term for this position is two to three years. (Reporter Zhao Bing)
Israeli Defense Minister Katz publicly criticized Central Command Chief Aviv Blot and announced Major General Dado Bar Kalifa as his successor on October 2, 2023. The IDF later refuted this decision, stating it was not coordinated with Chief of Staff Zamel, who intends to follow established procedures for such changes. Katz's office claimed the appointment was based on Zamel's prior recommendation.
- Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced the replacement of Central Command Chief Aviv Blot.
- Major General Dado Bar Kalifa is named as the successor.
- The IDF refuted the announcement, stating it was not coordinated with Chief of Staff Zamel.
- Blot has been in position since July 2024, typically serving a term of two to three years.