Thousands of Israelis took to the streets late Tuesday night to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire Defense Minister Yoav Galant, news agency AFP reported. Protesters gathered in Tel Aviv, condemning the dismissal and demanding that Gallant’s replacement, Israel Katz, prioritize efforts to secure the release of hostages from Gaza.
Protesters carrying Israeli flags gathered on Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway, blocking traffic and setting fires while chanting anti-government slogans. Many protesters wore shirts and held signs reading, “Bring them home now!” Reference to Israeli hostages in Gaza, and criticism of Netanyahu for his alleged failure to defend the country from last year’s Hamas attack. “We deserve better leaders” and “Leaving no one behind!” Slogans were raised continuously, which reflected the public’s dissatisfaction with the decisions of the current administration.
Gallant’s dismissal has caused concern internationally, with questions about the stability of the Israeli government amid the ongoing military conflict with Gaza. Some US officials have expressed concern, questioning the motivations behind Gallant’s removal and its impact on Israel’s security priorities.
Hostage negotiations and call for peace
Many Israelis are particularly concerned about the hostages still in Gaza, and insist that their safe return should be a priority. Samuel Miller, a protester and teacher, expressed disappointment, saying that “Gallant is the only normal person in the government” and lamenting that the current administration has failed to ensure security for both Israelis and Palestinians. According to Miller, Netanyahu’s government is “doing absolutely nothing to free the hostages,” a sentiment shared by many at the rally.
What did Netanyahu say?
In his statement, Netanyahu cited a lack of confidence in Galant’s management of military affairs as the reason for the dismissal. Gallant, previously known for his aggressive stance, reportedly advocated a ceasefire and negotiations to free the hostages. His successor, Israel Katz, promised to continue Israel’s military goals, aimed at facilitating the defeat of Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon and the release of hostages.
America’s response
The Biden administration, which initially refrained from criticizing Netanyahu’s decision, later expressed concern over Gallant’s firing. A US official questioned Netanyahu’s intentions and suggested that the decision may have been due to internal political reasons rather than security concerns.
A US official told The Times of Israel, “We have real questions about the reasons for Gallant’s firing and the reasons that drove the decision.”
Who is Israel Katz?
Israel Katz, a veteran member of Netanyahu’s Likud party, is stepping into the role of defense minister amid significant public unrest and the ongoing military crackdown. Katz’s experience includes roles in foreign affairs, intelligence, and energy, although he lacks Gallant’s extensive military background. Katz, known for his firm stances on Iran and Palestinian extremism, has vowed to aggressively pursue Israel’s military goals, despite limited experience in high-level defense operations.
