Israel’s defence minister dismisses criticism of Gaza war as outdated

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said criticism of the government and army by former military personnel reflects an outdated approach to security issues.

In a post on X, Katz stated that former general Ofer Winter and others who condemn the government fail, in his view, to take into account Israel’s achievements in Iran, Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, Caliber.Az reports.

His remarks came after Winter criticised the government’s and army’s actions following the elimination of a Hamas brigade commander in Rafah.

הביקורת המסולפת של עופר וינטר נגד הממשלה וצה"ל בעקבות חיסול מח"ט רפיח של החמאס אמש, זהה לזו של כל הלשעברים יושבי האולפנים בעלי התפיסה הביטחונית המיושנת שמתעלמים מההישגים הגדולים באיראן, בעזה, בלבנון ובסוריה כדי לתקוף את הממשלה. בדיוק כמוהם הוא תוקף במקום לשבח.

וינטר לא מעודכן…

— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) September 16, 2026

Katz stressed that a security zone controlled by the Israeli army had been established in the Gaza Strip and that targeted operations against Hamas leaders were continuing.

The minister further stated that he had previously considered appointing Winter as head of the administration dealing with migration from Gaza, but ultimately decided against the appointment.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov