Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, a significant move amid Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. The decision, announced Tuesday, has stirred widespread protests across Israel, with large crowds gathering near the prime minister’s residence in Jerusalem and or major cities, reflecting growing unrest.
Mr. Gallant, a former senior general and a more moderate figure within Netanyahu’s administration, had advocated for a cease-fire in Gaza to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. He also differed from the prime minister on domestic issues, particularly the mandatory conscription of ultra-Orthodox Israelis into the military — a longstanding and contentious issue in Israeli politics. Netanyahu, explaining the decision in a video statement, cited “significant gaps” in his and Gallant’s approach to ongoing conflict, emphasizing that unity of vision was critical for Israel’s defense strategy.
A Key Advocate for Cease-Fire
Gallant, 65, had become a strong advocate within the Israeli government for a cease-fire agreement with Hamas in exchange for the release of hostages captured during the group’s surprise assault on October 7, 2023. In his remarks following his dismissal, Gallant outlined reasons behind his firing, highlighting three key points of contention: his support for mandatory ultra-Orthodox military service, his push for a cease-fire to secure hostages’ release, and his call for a commission of inquiry into Israel’s security lapses during October attack.
“My firm stance is that every military-age person must be enlisted,” Gallant stated in a televised address. “You must serve in Israel Defense Forces and defend the State of Israel. This is no longer just a social issue; it is a paramount issue for our existence and future.” Gallant’s stance on conscription placed him at odds with ultra-Orthodox lawmakers in Netanyahu’s coalition, whose constituents have traditionally been exempt from mandatory military service. By challenging this exemption, Gallant risked destabilizing Netanyahu’s coalition, which relies on ultra-Orthodox support.
Following the announcement of Gallant’s dismissal, crowds flooded the streets of Tel Aviv, blocking traffic and lighting bonfires on a major highway in a display of frustration and opposition to the decision.
Internal Divisions and Rising Pressure
firing of Gallant exposes deep divisions within the Israeli government as it navigates multiple fronts in conflict. Israel is currently engaged in military operations against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and sporadic Palestinian militant attacks in the West Bank. Escalating tensions come amid growing concern over potential Iranian involvement, as both Hamas and Hezbollah receive support from Tehran.
Gallant’s close relationship with U.S. officials also added another layer of complexity to his dismissal. American officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, frequently communicated with Gallant rather than Netanyahu. This dynamic reportedly frustrated Netanyahu, who has faced both international and domestic criticism for his handling of war. White House’s National Security Council responded cautiously to Gallant’s dismissal, stating that the former defense minister had been “an important partner on all matters related to the defense of Israel” and pledged to “work collaboratively” with his successor.
In Gallant’s place, Netanyahu appointed Foreign Minister Israel Katz as the new defense minister. Katz, a close ally of Netanyahu, lacks extensive security experience, and analysts suggest he is likely to align closely with the prime minister’s hard-line approach, particularly regarding a cease-fire in Gaza. Katz is expected to support Netanyahu’s vision for an extended military campaign against Hamas and to be equally resistant to compromises that could secure the hostages’ release.
Coalition Maneuvers and Domestic Challenges
Alongside Katz’s appointment, Netanyahu has reportedly offered a foreign minister role to Gideon Saar, a hard-liner who joined Netanyahu’s government in September. By formally incorporating Saar’s faction into his coalition, Netanyahu would solidify his political position during a turbulent period, creating a more stable base of support within his government.
Gallant’s dismissal comes at a critical time for Israel, which is confronting some of its most significant security challenges in years. In addition to escalating conflict, the nation’s security establishment is grappling with a new scandal involving a spokesman in Netanyahu’s office who allegedly leaked classified documents. This revelation has intensified scrutiny on the prime minister and heightened public calls for a state commission to investigate security failures leading to the October 7 attack.
Gallant had already called for such an investigation, stating that it should examine the actions of both military and government leaders, including himself and Netanyahu. However, the prime minister has resisted calls for an inquiry, arguing that it would be premature to begin an investigation while Israel remains engaged in active conflict.
Unrest and Political Fallout
prime minister’s decision to dismiss Gallant has sparked outrage among many Israelis, including families of hostages held in Gaza, who believe that Netanyahu has prioritized his political survival over a potential cease-fire that could bring their loved ones home. Demonstrators took to the streets in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, criticizing Netanyahu’s leadership and expressing frustration with his uncompromising stance. Some voiced concerns that Gallant’s dismissal could hinder diplomatic efforts with the United States and weaken Israel’s international alliances at a crucial time.
Michal Eshel, 38, who joined the protest near Netanyahu’s residence, said, “Those who are supposed to protect us are protecting our seat and our government. I want to say that I did something when the country was falling apart.”
Gallant’s departure from government raises questions about Israel’s future direction and its strategy to end hostilities. Experts suggest that, with Gallant gone, Netanyahu has effectively sidelined the most moderate voice in his cabinet, potentially leading to an escalation in conflict as Israel navigates a complex and volatile security landscape.
