Protests Erupt as Netanyahu Fires Defense Minister...

Protests Erupt as Netanyahu Fires Defense Minister Yoav Gallant

Oscar J Jeke

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has sparked immediate protests, with critics accusing the government of sidelining voices advocating for hostages' return and national unity amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. Netanyahu cited a "crisis of trust" and escalating policy differences as the reason for Gallant's dismissal, following months of reported tensions between the two leaders.

The dismissal follows Gallant’s open support for "painful concessions" aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, a strategy Gallant argues is both viable and in Israel's national interest. His stance, however, put him at odds with Netanyahu, who has resisted any concessions he believes could undermine Israel's military position. This divergence, along with Gallant’s calls for a national inquiry into Israel's war strategy and his opposition to continued military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Israelis, reportedly deepened the rift between the two.

“In the midst of a war, more than ever, full trust is required between the prime minister and the minister of defense,” Netanyahu stated on Tuesday. He added that recent disagreements had “cracked” the trust and led to “significant gaps” in campaign management decisions, making Gallant's position untenable.

Gallant, known for his pragmatic approach and strong ties with the U.S., took to social media shortly after the announcement, reaffirming his commitment to Israel's security. "The security of the State of Israel was, and will always remain, the mission of my life," he posted. Later, Gallant expressed that his dismissal stemmed from his stance on three critical issues: opposing exemptions from military service, advocating for a national inquiry, and prioritizing efforts to bring hostages home.

Protests erupted across major Israeli cities following the announcement, with demonstrators blocking highways and calling for Netanyahu’s resignation. Many protesters criticized the dismissal as politically motivated, urging Gallant’s replacement, Israel Katz, to commit to a hostage deal. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum condemned the move as a “continuation of efforts to torpedo” negotiations for a comprehensive hostage return.

Katz, who has a reputation for hawkish views, is expected to adopt a stricter military stance. Netanyahu also announced Gideon Sa’ar as the new foreign minister, further signaling a shift toward a hard-line approach.

Political leaders from Israel’s opposition decried Gallant’s firing, citing concerns over military strategy and governance transparency. Gallant, who was briefly dismissed by Netanyahu in March 2023 over judicial reform disputes, had consistently clashed with Netanyahu over Israel's post-war strategy for Gaza. He had publicly urged Netanyahu to clarify that Israel has no intention of assuming military or civilian control over Gaza, a stance that intensified friction within Israel’s war cabinet.

The Knesset must approve the new appointments, which are expected to take effect within 48 hours.