Israel has witnessed mass protests after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a “crisis of trust” after he sacked the Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Netanyahu said foreign minister Israel Katz would act as an interim defense minister, while Gallant explained that he was removed due to the disagreement between the two on policy matters where Netanyahu refused to take any further steps to release the hostages being held by Hamas.
Thousands marched in the streets, calling for Netanyahu’s resignation and appealing to the newly installed defense minister to draw attention to the hostage negotiations. That was partly due to a dispute over possible concessions in exchange for the release of hostages over a stance adopted by Gallant, who would later be at loggerheads with Netanyahu.
For the last few months, reports of increased tension between Netanyahu and Gallant have surfaced regarding matters like Israel’s military strategy and the exemption of ultra-Orthodox Israelis from compulsory service. The public outcry regarding the sacking of Gallant is an outpouring of people’s grievances regarding the stand of the government on such controversial matters and the growing chasm among the Israeli leadership along ideological lines.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum expressed deep frustration over Prime Minister Bennett’s recent actions, calling it a setback to efforts aimed at securing the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas since early October 2023. On Tuesday night, protesters poured into the streets, blocking major roads and setting fires as a powerful display of public anger and discontent.
Gallant’s dismissal will come into effect in 48 hours if the Knesset approves Katz as the defense minister next. The onlookers have commented that Gallant’s exit occurred at a crucial moment; the US presidential elections will be underway and also large policy decisions are about to be taken. The White House National Security Council stood its ground concerning supporting the next defense minister of Israel since both the countries possess an excellent defense relationship.
This has heightened inner pressure even more and upped the ante in concern over the stability and course of Israel’s leadership of the war.
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