Tensions rise between Israel defence minister and military chief

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has reprimanded the country’s military chief, Eyal Zamir, over military appointments made “without prior coordination or agreement”. Katz added he “does not intend to discuss any of the appointments or names that were published” on account of their being “in violation of accepted procedure”.

Zamir responded in an army statement published shortly afterwards, saying that he was “the sole authority authorised to appoint officers from the rank of colonel upwards”.

The statement continues: “The chief of staff makes the appointment decisions - after which the appointment is brought to the minister for approval”.