A dispute erupted at the highest levels of the Israeli military and government after the Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir, announced a series of senior appointments during a staffing discussion. Defense Minister Israel Katz strongly objected, stating the meeting was held without his prior coordination and in violation of standard procedures, and declared he would not approve the appointments. Despite Katz's opposition, Zamir proceeded to distribute the list of appointments to the media, emphasizing that the process followed regulations and that the Chief of Staff holds authority over such decisions, subject to ministerial approval.
The announced appointments include 14 officers promoted to brigadier general and four elevated to colonel, with several others reassigned to new roles. Many of those promoted had commanded units involved in recent combat operations in the Gaza Strip and other areas. The list features notable commanders transitioning to key operational and planning positions within the military hierarchy. The clash highlights ongoing tensions between the military leadership and the Defense Ministry over the process and authority for senior appointments.