Netanyahu and Katz deny Zamir dismissal

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz rejected claims on Monday that they plan to fire IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir.

Both officials denied the reports in statements issued on Monday, a day before Knesset elections begin. They described the stories as false narratives designed to hurt the Likud Party's prospects. Katz called the reports a complete fabrication and an outright lie. He argued that a series of security-related claims had circulated over the previous 24 hours with the intent to damage Likud's election chances.

Netanyahu personally addressed the issue on X, stating that he does not intend to dismiss the chief of staff. He said he will continue working with Zamir to ensure Israel's security. Netanyahu also stated his intention to eliminate the Iranian nuclear threat alongside President Trump. He added that he plans to sign peace agreements with additional countries. His office issued a separate statement describing the reports as complete fake news from beginning to end.

Katz emphasized that he originally recommended Zamir for the position of IDF chief of staff. He said their cooperation would continue as they work toward the security of the State of Israel. Katz noted that they have achieved unprecedented historic results together. He stressed that coordination between the prime minister, the defense minister, and the military remains complete. He denied that there was any intention to start an Israeli attack on Iran before the elections, though he said Israel would respond forcefully if Iran attacks.

The denials follow reports from Channel 12 News on Sunday evening that Netanyahu and Zamir clashed over the possibility of a strike on Iran. Defense officials sought to clarify that military decisions are made on professional grounds. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit issued a statement on Monday confirming the military is on high alert across all fronts. The unit said its operations are based solely on security, professional, and national interests.

Former IDF chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot, who leads the Yashar Party, weighed in on the situation. He declared that Zamir would remain in office until the law requires him to leave. Eisenkot said Netanyahu would leave office after the elections and the formation of the next government. He stated that the people of Israel would elect a prime minister who acts for the good of the country rather than political interests. Polling stations are set to open on Tuesday.