Overview

• IDF Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has announced several new appointments within the IDF, facing criticism from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich who attempted to block the promotions.
• Smotrich criticized the current IDF High Command for its handling of the October 7 failures, arguing they should not design the next generation of the IDF or appoint commanders.
• The appointments were defended by IDF sources, stating most were unrelated to the commands most responsible for the October 7 failures, aiming for continuity and avoiding disruption in leadership.
• Despite the controversy, the IDF maintains high levels of trust among the Israeli Jewish population, with a recent poll showing 86.5% of Israeli Jews have faith in the IDF.
• The debate over the appointments highlights the tension between the military and political spheres in Israel, amidst ongoing discussions about the IDF's direction and leadership post-October 7.