- Protests in Israel after Netanyahu fires defence minister
- Netanyahu cited a “crisis of trust” between the two leaders
- Foreign Minister Israel Katz will take over Gallant’s duties
Protests in Israel after Netanyahu fires defence minister
Protests have broken out in Israel following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. Netanyahu cited a “crisis of trust” between the two leaders as the reason for the dismissal, saying his confidence in Gallant had eroded over recent months. Foreign Minister Israel Katz will take over Gallant’s duties temporarily.
Gallant, who had been at odds with Netanyahu on several key issues, suggested his removal was due to disagreements over Israel’s approach to the Gaza conflict, including his belief that painful concessions could help secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza. Many protesters took to the streets, calling for Netanyahu’s resignation and urging the new defence minister to prioritise a hostage deal.
The two leaders have long had a tense working relationship, with reports of heated arguments over Israel’s war strategy and military policies. Gallant had also been critical of Netanyahu’s stance on exempting Israel’s Ultra-Orthodox citizens from mandatory military service. Netanyahu had previously fired Gallant earlier in 2023 over political differences, but reinstated him after public backlash.