Defense Minister Israel Katz faces internal backlash for freezing IDF promotions and allegedly politicizing senior appointments.
A wave of controversy has erupted within Israel’s defense establishment as Defense Minister Israel Katz comes under fire from senior IDF officers for what critics describe as a “double standard” and politicization of military promotions.
Military correspondent Doron Kadosh reported that since assuming office, Katz has canceled six senior appointments made by Chiefs of Staff Herzi Halevi and Eyal Zamir, including those of Ephraim Avni (Paratroopers Brigade), Colonel A. (Yahyalam Unit), Eliad Moati (210th Brigade), Manor Yanai (Ground Forces Commander), Hisham Ibrahim (Defense Intelligence Chief of Staff), and Nimrod Aloni (Attaché to Washington).
In addition, Katz has reportedly delayed the promotions of nearly 100 senior IDF officers, including four of the most critical posts in the military hierarchy — the Commanders of the Air Force and Navy, the Chief of Staff of the Defense Intelligence Directorate, and the Attaché in Washington.
According to Kadosh, the delays stem partly from Katz’s belief that some officers bear “operational responsibility” for failures during the October 7th Hamas massacre. However, he added that Katz’s application of accountability appears selective and inconsistent, as some officers in comparable positions were promoted despite similar involvement in the events of that day.
“Officers in the IDF see the minister’s double standard—and are shocked,” Kadosh noted, describing growing unease within the ranks. Sources allege that Katz is pushing loyalists and personal appointees, including his own military secretary, while sidelining others.
Critics fear that Katz’s actions could erode the IDF’s traditionally apolitical ethos by introducing partisan influence into what was once a merit-driven process. Senior defense officials have reportedly expressed “extreme shock” over what they describe as a troubling politicization of Israel’s most sacred institution—the Israel Defense Forces.
Despite the uproar, Katz maintains that his decisions reflect a “necessary restructuring” aimed at restoring accountability and strengthening national security after the unprecedented failures of October 7. Supporters argue that true reform often provokes resistance—and that Katz’s leadership marks a tough but vital correction at a critical moment for Israel’s defense establishment.
