Jerusalem: Protests have erupted across Israel after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the dismissal of Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, citing a “crisis of trust.”
Netanyahu stated that his confidence in Gallant had “eroded” over recent months and appointed Foreign Minister Israel Katz as Gallant’s replacement. The decision, Netanyahu explained, was due to Gallant’s stance on key security issues, including his advocacy for making “painful concessions” to secure the release of remaining hostages from Gaza.
Gallant, who had previously clashed with Netanyahu on various policy issues, released a statement saying his removal stemmed from disagreements on three major points: hostages, military service exemptions, and the need for a national inquiry into Israel’s post-war planning. He asserted that securing the release of hostages is achievable but would require concessions that Israel could bear, emphasising his dedication to the security of the nation.
Following the announcement, demonstrators across Israel called for Netanyahu’s resignation and for the incoming defence minister to prioritise a hostage deal. Protesters blocked traffic on the Ayalon Highway, with some lighting fires, demanding stronger leadership to address the crisis.
Gallant’s dismissal marks another fracture in Netanyahu’s administration, which has been plagued by ongoing disputes. Their long-standing tensions resurfaced earlier this year over controversial judicial reforms, leading to Netanyahu’s initial attempt to dismiss Gallant in March- a decision he retracted after nationwide protests.
Gallant had recently criticised Netanyahu’s lack of a post-war strategy for Gaza, expressing concerns about any future occupation. In response, Netanyahu publicly rejected Gallant’s suggestions, underscoring his unwillingness to replace Hamas control with any other faction.
The move also comes as Netanyahu faces increasing pressure from right-wing factions to push through a bill exempting ultra-Orthodox citizens from military service bill Gallant openly opposed. Observers suggest this added pressure may have contributed to the timing of Gallant’s dismissal, which took effect hours before the US presidential election, an event closely watched due to Israel’s relationship with the United States. Gallant’s ties with the White House had been strong, in contrast to Netanyahu’s increasingly strained relations.
With Katz’s appointment, Israeli opposition leaders are calling for renewed protests and questioning the implications for Israel’s national security amid ongoing conflict.
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