Official announcements from the Israeli government

Netanyahu Fires Defense Minister Gallant Over Trust Issues; Appoints Israel Katz Amid Protests

Nov 5, 2024, 07:09 PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the dismissal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday evening, citing a breakdown of trust and significant gaps in the management of the ongoing war effort. Netanyahu emphasized that "full trust is required between the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister." Israel Katz, the current Foreign Minister, has been appointed as the new Defense Minister, and Gideon Sa'ar will serve as the new Foreign Minister. In response to Gallant's dismissal, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Protesters blocked the Ayalon Highway, set fires, and gathered outside Netanyahu's residence, expressing outrage over the decision. Opposition leader Benny Gantz criticized the move, stating, "Politics at the expense of national security." Gallant responded to his dismissal by affirming, "The security of the State of Israel has been and will always remain the mission of my life." The firing comes amid heightened tensions and concerns about potential attacks from Iran, as Israel continues its war efforts against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. A U.S. official expressed concern over Gallant's dismissal, calling it "surprising" and noting it comes "especially in the middle of two wars and as Israel prepares to defend against a potential attack from Iran."