Tensions escalate between Israeli military institutions

Tensions between Israel Katz, the minister of war, and Eyal Zamir, Chief of Staff of the Israeli army, have reached a stage of mutual escalation. The crisis has intensified as army commanders believe serious action must be taken to prevent any potential conflict scenario that could once again occupy the regime and impact the military institution itself.

The Maariv newspaper wrote that these disputes became apparent following Zamir’s notable remarks on Wednesday, in which he called for “brave, decisive, and reality-changing leadership” and emphasized that the essence of leadership lies in acknowledging failure and having the courage to lead change.

Some Israeli media outlets reported that, amid escalating tensions between political and security institutions, these messages were specifically directed at Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister and minister of war.

According to Israeli military journalists, Zamir’s statements revived the issue of leadership crisis in the occupied territories, as he explicitly demanded a new leadership model that accepts shortcomings and sets a clear approach for the upcoming phase.

The Israeli newspaper noted that the escalation of the crisis comes as the army faces increasing operational pressures on multiple fronts, including the “Five Stones” operation in the northern West Bank, further aggravating political-military disputes.

Following Katz’s order to conduct a renewed review of the army’s internal investigations regarding Israel’s failures on October 7, 2023, Katz and Zamir exchanged criticisms last Monday.

Katz also decided to suspend appointments to senior military positions for 30 days, prompting Zamir to accuse him of “political interference and undermining army readiness.”