Israeli Defense Minister Slams Eisenkot's Post-Election Speech as Undemocratic
Defense Minister Israel Katz criticized Gadi Eisenkot's post-election speech as undemocratic, after Eisenkot urged security chiefs to defy political directives.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz slammed the speech delivered by Yashar! party chairman Gadi Eisenkot following the exit polls, calling it embarrassing and undemocratic. Eisenkot had called on senior defense and public service officials to resist political pressures and promised them his backing, while also criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Katz strongly condemned Eisenkot's remarks, particularly his appeal to IDF commanders to disregard directives from the political leadership. The Defense Minister stated that the IDF has been a full partner in strategic achievements regarding Iran and will continue to carry out all required decisions under lawful authority.
Tensions have also escalated following reports of friction between Prime Minister Netanyahu and IDF Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. While political insiders speculated that Zamir might be replaced if Netanyahu secures a victory, both the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister dismissed these reports as complete fabrications.
