Protests erupt in Israel after Netanyahu sacks Defense Minister Gallant

Move sparks outrage as demonstrators call for Netanyahu's resignation, criticise dismissal as destabilising force

Protests broke out across Israel on November 5, 2024, following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to fire Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

The move has sparked outrage, with demonstrators calling for Netanyahu's resignation and criticizing the dismissal as a further destabilizing factor in the ongoing wars in Gaza and Lebanon.

In a statement, Netanyahu cited a "crisis of trust" between himself and Gallant, explaining that the relationship had deteriorated in recent months.

Gallant's removal followed tensions over Israel's military strategy and the handling of hostage negotiations.

One key point of contention was Gallant’s belief that Israel could secure the return of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza through "painful concessions"—an approach Netanyahu reportedly opposed.

Gallant, a former army general, is seen as having a more moderate stance compared to Netanyahu’s more hawkish approach, particularly regarding the future of Gaza and military service exemptions for Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community.

The firing also comes at a sensitive time, with the country in the midst of two wars and public pressure growing on Netanyahu to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages.

After the announcement, protesters took to the streets in Tel Aviv, blocking major roads and calling for Netanyahu to step down.

Some demonstrators were specifically focused on Gallant’s position regarding hostage negotiations, demanding that the incoming defense minister prioritize securing the safe return of those captured by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attacks.

The families of the hostages expressed anger, accusing Netanyahu of undermining efforts to negotiate a deal.

Gallant's dismissal is not without precedent. In March 2023, Netanyahu had already attempted to fire Gallant due to disagreements over judicial reforms, before reversing the decision amid massive public protests.

This time, however, Netanyahu's actions have triggered even more intense backlash, with many viewing the move as an attempt to consolidate power in the face of increasing international scrutiny and domestic unrest.

The timing of the firing also raised eyebrows internationally, as it occurred on the same day as the US presidential election.

Gallant, who had a strong relationship with the White House, was seen as more aligned with US defense priorities, while Netanyahu’s controversial policies have led to strained relations with international allies, particularly over the handling of Gaza.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu has appointed Foreign Minister Israel Katz as Gallant's successor. Katz is known for his hardline stance on security issues, which could signal an even more aggressive approach to Israel’s military strategy moving forward.

While Netanyahu has expressed confidence that the changes will strengthen Israel’s defense posture, political analysts warn that the move could deepen divisions within the Israeli government and military, particularly at a time when unity is critical.

Gallant’s replacement is set to take effect within 48 hours, pending approval from the Israeli Knesset, further fueling political uncertainty in an already volatile period for Israel.

The protests and public outcry underscore growing frustration over Israel’s leadership and its handling of the ongoing conflict.

Recent event depict Israeli attacks continue to target Gaza and southern Lebanon.

Since dawn on November 5, 2024, Israeli forces have struck northern Gaza's Beit Lahiya and central Gaza's Nuseirat refugee camp, killing civilians, including a woman and her three children in Beit Lahiya.

In Lebanon, Israeli warplanes have bombed towns in Tyre and Nabatieh, killing at least 20 people in Barja.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 43,000 Palestinian deaths and 3,000 Lebanese casualties since October 2023.

With no end to the fighting in sight, many Israelis are calling for a shift in leadership, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes security, diplomacy, and the return of hostages.