Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, to finalize the investigations of the October 7 events by the end of January 2025. As part of this directive, Katz emphasized that he would not authorize new appointments of generals in the IDF until the investigations are completed and their findings are presented.
This decision halts a process intended to fill key positions within the military. It is worth noting that the previous Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, had already approved significant appointments of generals, including Avi Blot, who assumed the role of Commander of the Central Command, and Major General Shlomi Binder, who became the head of the Intelligence Directorate—a position that faced significant criticism following the events of October 7 and his involvement in them.
Appointments of Two Officers from the Southern Command Delayed
Last month, the Defense Minister approved the IDF’s list of promotions to the ranks of Colonel and Brigadier General, as recommended by the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi. However, the Minister decided to delay the approval of two officers from the Southern Command—the Operations Officer and the Engineering Officer—pending completion of the review of their involvement and performance during the events of October 7 and throughout the war.
