Katz asserts caretaker government retains full military authority over IDF

Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a firm statement on Thursday, November 12, 2026, confirming that the current cabinet retains full responsibility for Israel's security despite operating as a caretaker government. Speaking on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Katz emphasized that the existing political structure maintains complete authority over military and strategic matters.

The minister highlighted the clarity of the chain of command during this transitional period. He noted that there is a single prime minister, a single defense minister directing the Israel Defense Forces, and a unified government tasked with making all critical decisions regarding national security and the protection of citizens. Katz added that this authority is naturally subject to the necessary oversight mechanisms already in place.

Katz's remarks arrived at a time of heightened strategic discussions between Jerusalem and Washington. Officials in both capitals are currently debating the likelihood of renewed military engagement with Iran, making the question of decision-making authority particularly sensitive.

The statement also serves as a direct response to a recent letter from former defense minister Benny Gantz and other opposition figures, including former defense minister Avi Eisenkot. In that correspondence, the group warned that the caretaker government's powers should be limited to routine security and national decisions until a new permanent government is formed.

Eisenkot had further appealed to Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara, asking her to intervene in the process. His goal was to ensure that the prime minister continues to receive regular and comprehensive security briefings without interruption during the interim period.

In his rebuttal, Katz defended the government's prerogative to order military action without external consent. He stated that the cabinet does not require approval from opposition parties or any specific legal body to instruct the IDF to conduct targeted operations. He specifically cited ongoing activities in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank as examples of such operations.

Turning his attention to the Iranian front, Katz expressed confidence in the government's approach. He claimed that Israel has demonstrated both determination and sound judgment in its dealings with Iran. He noted that this strategy has been executed in full coordination with the military leadership and will continue as circumstances dictate.

Katz stressed that the nation's security posture is not in a state of transition. He argued that defense matters do not wait for parallel political processes to conclude. He concluded by asserting that this model of authority has been the historical norm and will remain the standard going forward.