Deputy Defense Minister Rabbi Eli Ben Dahan (Jewish Home) responded to the decision of Major General Chico Edri to withdraw his candidacy.
"This is a direct continuation of the smear campaign against Gal Hirsch for the same job three years ago, and joins a series of appointments in the public service had been glossed over contrary to the position of political leadership - this is a trend exacerbated and severely endangers Israeli democracy, and obviates the electoral process.
If at any time the political leaders try to navigate The ship he was in charge of, he needs the mercy and approval at the administrative level- the voice of the people is not heard, "he said.