Netanyahu steps in to cool public row between Katz and Zamir

The pair have previously openly quarrelled about the IDF's top brass, with Katz blocking some planned promotions last month, which led to allegations that he was politicising the military.

Following the dismissals, Katz said he would once again freeze appointments until the comptroller, Brigadier General (reserve) Yair Volansky, presents his own conclusions.

In response, Zamir accused Katz of political interference and of hampering the army's preparedness.

"An alternative 30-day review by the defence establishment comptroller, with no disrespect to him, is irrelevant," he told reporters.

"The IDF is the only body in the country that thoroughly investigated its own failures and took responsibility for them.

"If any further review is required to complete the picture, it must take the form of an external, objective and independent committee."

Katz then hit back: "I appreciate the chief of staff, who knows well that he is subordinate to the prime minister, the defence minister and the government of Israel.

"I do not intend to argue through the media."

Yesterday, Netanyahu summoned both men for separate meetings to address the row.

The prime minister met first with Katz, before receiving Zamir in his office.

Reports in Hebrew media state that he told the pair to lower the temperature of their disagreement in public and keep internal wranglings out of the national press.

One report, from Israel Hayom, suggested that Netanyahu may replace Katz with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar.

But this was seemingly denied by the Prime Minister's Office, which stated: "It is best not to listen to briefings to journalists by interested parties.

"The prime minister is determined to solve the issues, and will solve them in the best way possible."