Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant Fired Amid Gaza Conflict

Yoav Galant, the former Israeli Defense Minister, urged the government to take immediate action to return prisoners from the Gaza Strip “alive,” emphasizing the need for all Israelis to perform military service.

Gallant made these remarks in a speech after being removed from office by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He stressed that the government’s obligation is to return the hostages quickly while they are still alive.

Gallant also emphasized the importance of mandatory military service for all Israelis, including religious Jews who were previously exempt. He believes that everyone of conscription age should join the military.

Reasons Behind the Dismissal

Gallant confirmed that his dismissal was due to disagreements over three key issues. The first issue was related to conscription, as he believed that everyone of conscription age should join the military.

The second disagreement was related to his insistence on returning Israeli prisoners to the Gaza Strip as soon as possible, which he believed could be achieved with some concessions.

The third disagreement was related to his insistence on forming a government inquiry agency to investigate the events that occurred after October 7, 2023.

Netanyahu’s Decision to Fire Gallant

Netanyahu announced Gallant’s dismissal on Tuesday evening, citing a lack of trust in his handling of the ongoing military operation. Netanyahu stated that the crisis of trust between them had made it impossible to continue conducting the war in the same way.

Following Gallant’s dismissal, Netanyahu appointed Foreign Minister Israel Katz as the new Defense Minister and National Right Party chief Gideon Sarr as the new Foreign Minister.

According to Israeli media reports, Netanyahu informed Gallant of his decision to fire him just 10 minutes before the official statement was published. The firing call between them reportedly lasted only 3 minutes.

Domestic Reactions to Gallant’s Dismissal

Netanyahu’s decision to fire Gallant sparked mixed domestic reactions, with fierce criticism and thousands of protesters taking to the streets to reject the decision. The occupation army continues its military operation in the Gaza Strip, which has expanded into Lebanon.