Story perspectives

Israel Defense Minister Defends Chief, Cites 80% Terror Drop

8/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz said IDF Command Chief Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth has not been dismissed and is performing well.
Katz denied calling for Bluth’s removal during a live Channel 14 interview on Sunday.
At the Kirya meeting, Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recognized 104 new West Bank communities and 160 farms.
Katz cancelled administrative detention orders against settlers, which officials said contributed to an 80% drop in terrorist incidents.

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Story summary

Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz said IDF Command Chief Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth has not been dismissed and is performing well.
Katz denied calling for Bluth’s removal during a live Channel 14 interview on Sunday.
At the Kirya meeting, Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recognized 104 new West Bank communities and 160 farms.
Katz cancelled administrative detention orders against settlers, which officials said contributed to an 80% drop in terrorist incidents.