Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi over recent senior appointments, arguing that Halevi has not been tasked with overhauling the military during wartime.
Speaking at the opening of his Religious Zionism party’s weekly faction meeting, Smotrich asserted that the IDF leadership’s mandate following the “failure” of October 7 was solely to conduct the war.
“There is no mandate to design the new and reformed IDF. I call on the chief of staff to stop the round of appointments. It is not the time,” he said, adding that such a project should only be undertaken by a new military high command “appointed after the victory.”
Smotrich reiterated his full support for the IDF at all levels and ranks, even when he disagrees with certain decisions. However, he cautioned against the IDF using this support to determine Israel’s future security strategy.
His comments came after the IDF announced that Brig. Gen. Barak Hiram, commander of the Israeli military’s 99th Division, was formally censured for the unauthorized demolition of a university in the Gaza Strip earlier this year.
Smotrich also called on Haredi parties to collaborate with other coalition parties to find a solution to the draft exemption issue. He emphasized the need for “respect” in finding a solution and criticized opposition politicians, like Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid, for their approach.
Smotrich emphasized the importance of mobilization in Haredi society during this “crucial” hour.
