Defense Minister Israel Katz has joined the condemnations of an opinion piece published in Haaretz, in which journalist Gideon Levy called the Central Command chief, Major General Avi Blut, a "blood general, war criminal." The minister stated, "I fully support Major General Avi Blut and all IDF commanders and soldiers in the West Bank who act decisively to protect Jewish settlers and Israel's security in accordance with government policy - actions that have led to approximately 80% reduction in terror attacks in Judea and Samaria and saved many lives. Haaretz's attempt to defame him and the IDF is spreading a despicable blood libel, genuine antisemitic incitement that serves our enemies' propaganda and weakens the fight against terrorism."