Netanyahu Replaces Defense Minister Amid Ongoing Middle East Tensions
In a surprising move amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday, citing a “crisis of trust.” Netanyahu appointed close ally Israel Katz to take over leadership of the country’s military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.
The reshuffle didn’t stop there. Netanyahu also named Gideon Saar as the new foreign minister, replacing Katz in that role.
Critics have accused Netanyahu of prioritizing political maneuvers over national security, especially at a time when Israel is preparing for potential Iranian retaliation following its October 26 airstrikes on Iran.
Explaining his decision, Netanyahu stated that Gallant had made statements that “contradict the decisions of the government and the decisions of the cabinet.” In response, Gallant affirmed his commitment by saying, “The security of the state of Israel always was and will always remain my life’s mission.”
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, representing families of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, expressed concern over the dismissal. They suggested that the move is part of Netanyahu’s efforts to thwart a potential hostage deal. The group highlighted that Gallant had supported a hostage-for-ceasefire exchange, noting that Israel had met its objectives in Gaza, while Netanyahu continues to push for the conflict’s continuation until achieving “total victory” over Hamas.
Israel Katz, stepping into his new role as defense minister, vowed to secure the return of Israel’s hostages from Gaza and to work towards the destruction of Hamas and Hezbollah.
As foreign minister, Katz had previously barred UN Secretary-General António Guterres from entering Israel, accusing him of failing to condemn an Iranian missile attack and exhibiting anti-Semitic behavior in September. He also rejected a proposed 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon.
The appointment of Katz has drawn widespread criticism due to his limited senior military experience. Opposition leader Yair Lapid commented on the situation, stating on X that “firing Gallant in the middle of a war is an act of madness.”
International reactions have been mixed. In Washington, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council acknowledged Gallant’s role as an important partner and noted that the U.S. would continue to work collaboratively with Katz.
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Netanyahu sacks defense minister as conflicts in Middle East grind on
cgtn.com
