Katz refuses to appoint Col. (res.) Gitelman, accuses him of encouraging draft evasion

Defense Minister Israel Katz has announced that he will not approve the promotion of Col. (res.) German Gitelman, citing the officer's alleged support for conscientious objection. Katz informed IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir that anyone who promotes or encourages refusal to serve in the military will neither hold a position in the IDF nor be promoted.

Lt.-Gen. Zamir had proposed elevating Gitelman to brigadier-general and appointing him as commander of the Ground Forces. The IDF Chief of Staff recently unveiled several senior appointments despite Katzs directive to pause promotions pending a review by the Defense Ministry comptroller following the October 7 investigation.

Gitelman has a distinguished military background, having led Battalion 82 in the 7th Brigade, commanded Battalion 532, served as deputy commander of the 162nd Division, and acted as the IDF defense attach in Russia.

Response from Brothers in Arms

The Brothers in Arms movement criticized Katzs decision, calling it an attack on a senior officer with three decades of service. The organization highlighted Gitelmans extensive reserve service and his immediate return to duty on October 7. They accused Katz of favoring draft evasion for certain groups while targeting devoted soldiers.

Brothers in Arms, a reservist-led movement focused on military service and conscription, has been active in debates over the haredi draft law and broader civil-military tensions, including opposition to judicial reform proposals.

This situation is ongoing and continues to develop.

Author: Gavin Porter