Israeli PM Netanyahu Replaces Defence Minister Amid Ongoing Conflict

Israel's Defence Minister Sacked

“The security of the state of Israel always was and will always remain my life's mission.”

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant fired by PM Netanyahu amid disagreements over Gaza strategy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sacked Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing a “crisis of trust” as the reason for his dismissal. This decision was announced on Netanyahu's official X account late Tuesday, November 5.

Netanyahu emphasized that full trust between the Prime Minister and Defense Minister is crucial, especially during wartime. Although their initial cooperation was productive, their relationship deteriorated due to significant policy disagreements.

Gallant's replacement, Israel Katz, takes the reins amidst ongoing conflict. Notably, Gallant had publicly criticized Netanyahu's judicial reform plans and handling of the Gaza conflict. This isn't the first time Gallant's removal was considered; hundreds of thousands protested his potential firing earlier.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had significant disagreements over Israel's military strategy in Gaza, Palestine. Netanyahu advocated for sustained military pressure on Hamas, while Gallant believed the operations should pave the way for negotiations to secure the release of Israeli hostages.

Gallant's removal sparked a strong statement from him, emphasizing his commitment to Israel's security. “The security of the state of Israel always was and will always remain my life's mission,” he said. This statement underscores the depth of his dedication to Israel's well-being, despite his disagreement with Netanyahu's approach.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing, with tensions escalating since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which sparked a massive Israeli military response.

The recent ousting of Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu comes amid heated debates on conscripting Haredi Jewish students into the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), a policy Gallant advocated for. Haredi Jews, who practice orthodox Judaism, have been exempt from military service, sparking controversy.

Gallant's removal resonates with Netanyahu's previous attempt to replace him in March 2023, which ignited mass protests and a cabinet reshuffle. This move has sparked fresh protests, with opposition leader Yair Lapid condemning the timing as “madness” amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Netanyahu has appointed Israel Katz, former Foreign Minister, as the new Defense Minister, while Gideon Saar takes over as Foreign Minister. Katz vowed to approach his role with “a sense of mission and holy fear for the security of the State of Israel and its citizens.”