Chief of staff not consulted ahead of PM's naming of Maj. Gen. David Zini, an active duty general; PM met Zini during base visit this month; PMO: Zini won't have role in Qatargate probe

The remarks, reportedly made during closed meetings at the General Staff, have sparked concern among hostage families and added to existing criticism regarding his suitability for the post.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed an army general as head of the Shin Bet internal intelligence agency despite a warning from the attorney general that it would be a conflict of interest.