Defense Minister Israel Katz publicly criticized IDF Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth on live television Sunday and announced his replacement, citing disagreement over an administrative restraining order involving a settler.
During an appearance on Channel 14, Katz stated his opposition to a restraining order against Tal Yinon Dardik, which had been repealed on a technicality. Katz said he had instructed Bluth not to renew the order, but Bluth and the Military Advocate General's Corps appealed the release "contrary to my policy."
"They did it against my position; it was the wrong step. [Bluth] must take my policy into account, and I will insist on this," Katz said.
Katz announced the appointment of IDF Personnel Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Dado Bar Kalifa as the next Central Command chief. "Because I also want, in the Central Command, an IDF that strives for decisive victory, strikes its enemies, and protects the settlers," He said. Katz also asserted that his "control over the [military] system is absolute."
Bluth has served as Central Command chief for more than two years since July 2024. The position typically lasts two to three years.
The IDF responded that Katz's announcement was "not coordinated" With Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, stating the chief of staff had no intention of replacing commanders in key positions during the current period. The military also praised Bluth as commanding Central Command "with professionalism, courage, and dedication."
Katz's office later stated that Zamir had recommended Bar Kalifa months earlier, at the end of April, with Katz interviewing him in June. The appointment is expected in the next round of appointments.