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Nothing over clouds the job. Barak and Ashkenazi
Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Office

Barak, Askenazi display 'business as usual'

Defense minister, IDF chief of staff meet privately for first time since tensions arouse surrounding Ashkenazi's tenure. 'These are two senior figures who are aware of the burden on their shoulders; even if there is slight tension between them – they know how to separate it from their work,' says security source

Defense Minister Ehud Barak and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi on Thursday participated in a series of security meetings and met privately as well, despite recent tensions following reports that Askenazi's term might be extended for another year.

 

Barak and Askenazi displayed an atmosphere of "business as usual" throughout the routine meetings and in between sessions the Chief of Staff and other high echelons in the security establishment raised a toast to celebrate Barak's 68th birthday.

 

Earlier on Thursday, Barak and Ashkenazi met in private and security sources said that recent tensions were not felt between the two.

 

"It doesn't seem that there is anything over clouding the job. These are important discussions, and we are all focused on them," said one of the sources and added, "These are two senior figures who are aware of the burden that is on their shoulders, and even if there is slight tension between them – they know how to separate it from their work."

 

During recent phone conversations, Barak and Ashkenazi discussed the controversial announcement that involved, alongside flattering comments for Ashkenazi, a piercing criticism against IDF Spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Avi Benayahu who is said to be the one responsible for stirring tensions.

 

No announcement was made following the phone conversations, which suggested that the minister's past remarks were not unintentional and were directed in a very specific direction.

 

Cooling off the spirits

Prior to the meetings, security sources told Ynet that the defense minister and the chief of staff will try to cool off the spirits and said that the stormy atmosphere surrounding the extension of Ashkenazi's term has only harmed his chances rather than helped them. However, they added, the matter has not been brought up for discussion and therefore the outcome is still unknown.


Met privately. Barak and Ashkenazi (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Ofiice)

 

"One must remember that Israel has been under a tense security situation in recent years – on many fronts, and that this situation will continue in years to come. Therefore, to claim that the chief of staff must remain in his post because of the sensitive security situation is irrelevant.

 

"You can keep the chief of staff in his post for a fifth year due to the security situation, but there must be other reasons as well, such as the fact that there are no eligible candidates for the job," said one of the sources.

 

The decision vis-à-vis Ashkenazi's tenure must be made by the summer, in order to allow for senior appointments within the General Staff. If Ashkenazi remains in his post, other senior figures might decide to retire, but if a new Chief of Staff is appointed, Ashkenazi's opinion must also be considered.

 

"The General Staff of the IDF is at a standstill at the moment, and as we approach the moment of decision, we see tensions increasing among senior officers.

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"There are a few key positions on the line; switching between generals and promoting brigadier generals is a strenuous process that might spark a row within the IDF ranks," a source said.

 


פרסום ראשון: 02.11.10, 20:31
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