Likud MK Slams IDF Chief: “If He Can’t Work With the Defense Minister – Hand Over the Keys”
Amid plans for an Israeli takeover of Gaza City, MK Amit Halevi calls for full Israeli civilian and security control of the Strip and accuses the IDF of stalling cabinet directives.
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In a sharp rebuke aimed at the Israel Defense Forces’ top brass, Likud MK Amit Halevi criticized IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir for oposing cabinet plans to seize Gaza City and enforce full Israeli control, both militarily and administratively, over the Gaza Strip. Speaking to 103FM, Halevi stressed that Israel must manage all aspects of life in the territory, including education, to prevent the resurgence of Hamas.
Citing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of a partial hostage deal, Halevi argued that military operations, not diplomatic talks in Doha, Cairo, or Washington, had brought Israel closer to victory and the release of hostages. He warned against leaving any part of Gaza’s civilian administration to non-Israeli authorities, claiming “anything else means nurturing Hamas again.”
The Likud lawmaker also condemned public clashes between the chief of staff and Defense Minister Katz, saying the army must carry out political directives without delay. “If the chief of staff cannot work with the defense minister, he should hand over the keys,” Halevi declared, adding that the defense minister’s office is accountable to the elected government.
Halevi further criticized the military for “dodging” when it opposes policy decisions, accusing it of dragging its feet on implementing cabinet resolutions. He also took aim at Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, claiming she treats the public office as if it were her private domain.