Israel-(Special Correspondent): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday, citing a “crisis of trust.” He appointed close ally Israel Katz to take over the country’s military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.
Critics accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political interests over security at a time when Israel faces potential retaliation from Iran following its recent airstrikes on Iranian territory. Following Gallant’s dismissal, protesters in Israel blocked major highways and set fires on roads, according to police.
Katz was also replaced as foreign minister by Gideon Saar. Gallant and Netanyahu, both members of the right-wing Likud party, have had ongoing disagreements over Israel’s military objectives in its 13-month conflict in Gaza with Hamas. However, Gallant’s removal was unexpected, coming as the U.S. held its presidential election.
Israel’s campaigns in Gaza and Lebanon have intensified, with recent strikes killing senior commanders from both Hamas and Hezbollah. Netanyahu explained Gallant’s dismissal by stating that he had made statements contrary to government policy, while Gallant reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security.
Katz, vowing to bring home Israeli hostages from Gaza and dismantle Hamas and Hezbollah, expressed his sense of duty toward the nation’s security. Netanyahu’s decision was supported by coalition member Itamar Ben-Gvir, who criticized Gallant’s belief that a complete victory is unachievable.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid called Gallant’s firing in the midst of war “madness.” Meanwhile, a White House National Security Council spokesperson acknowledged Gallant’s contributions and committed to ongoing collaboration with Katz.
France’s foreign minister is set to visit Israel and Palestinian territories to push for diplomatic resolutions.
In Gaza, the Israeli military issued evacuation orders for northern Gaza and continued airstrikes, with Palestinian reports indicating 35 people killed since Monday night. Acting U.N. aid chief Joyce Msuya condemned the impact on civilians, who have faced multiple displacements and restricted escape routes.
An Israeli airstrike on Beit Lahiya late Monday reportedly killed 20 people, while additional strikes across Gaza led to further casualties. The Israeli military reported eliminating targets linked to Hamas fighters and destroying weapon caches in southern Gaza. Leaflets were dropped over Beit Lahiya, urging residents to evacuate.
The conflict, which began after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 43,300 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health authorities.
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