Yoav Gallant Resigns from Knesset Two Months After Dismissal, Cites Ultra-Orthodox Military Exemption

Jan 1, 2025, 08:53 PM

Former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has resigned from the Knesset, less than two months after being dismissed from his position by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Gallant's resignation was announced in a televised statement where he cited his disagreement with a proposed law that would exempt ultra-Orthodox Jewish men from mandatory military service. He emphasized his belief in the necessity of universal conscription, stating that the exemption contradicts the needs of the Israeli military and the security of the state. Gallant, who has been a member of Netanyahu's Likud party since 2019, plans to remain within the party despite his resignation from the Knesset.