Jerusalem — In a dramatic turn of events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday evening the dismissal of Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, citing a “crisis of trust” that has “gradually deepened” between the two leaders. Gallant, who has been a prominent figure during the ongoing conflict in Gaza, will be replaced by Foreign Minister Israel Katz, while Minister without Portfolio Gideon Sa’ar will step into Katz’s former role. The announcement, made through a terse letter from the Prime Minister’s office, informs Gallant that his tenure will conclude within 48 hours of receipt.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Gallant’s service but did not shy away from the underlying tensions that prompted the change. In a video statement following the announcement, Netanyahu explained that while there was initial trust and productive collaboration at the war's onset, it has since deteriorated significantly. “Unfortunately, although in the first months of the war, there was trust and there was very fruitful work, during the last months this trust cracked between me and the Defence Minister,” he stated. Disagreements between the two leaders regarding the management of the war and Gallant’s choices that contradicted Cabinet decisions have been highlighted as key factors in the fallout.
Netanyahu criticized Gallant for indirectly benefiting Israel's adversaries and mentioned that attempts to reconcile their differences had only widened the rift. The timing of Gallant’s dismissal coincides with internal government tensions regarding the drafting of ultra-Orthodox citizens into the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Just a day prior to his ousting, Gallant approved the enlistment of an additional 7,000 Haredim, a decision that reportedly did not sit well with Netanyahu. In response to his firing, Gallant issued a brief statement reaffirming his commitment to Israel’s security.
“The security of the State of Israel always was, and will always remain my life’s mission,” he stated, leaving the door open for potential future involvement in national defense matters. The Prime Minister's decision comes in a politically charged atmosphere, as the United States focuses its attention elsewhere. Netanyahu's previous attempt to dismiss Gallant was met with backlash, resulting in public protests dubbed “the Night of Gallant,” which ultimately led Netanyahu to backtrack. As tensions escalate in Gaza and within Netanyahu's coalition, the political landscape in Israel remains uncertain. The removal of Gallant, who has been perceived as an obstacle to Netanyahu’s plans for a Haredi exemption from IDF service, may pave the way for new strategies as the government navigates the ongoing conflict and domestic challenges.
