Protests Erupt in Israel
Thousands of Israelis took to the streets late Tuesday to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as reported by news agency AFP. Demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv, denouncing the dismissal and demanding that Gallant’s replacement, Israel Katz, prioritise efforts to secure a hostage release from Gaza.
Protesters, holding Israeli flags, blocked traffic on Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway, lighting fires and chanting anti-government slogans. Many wore shirts and held signs reading “Bring them home now!” referring to Israeli hostages in Gaza, and criticized Netanyahu for his perceived failure to protect the country from last year’s Hamas attack. Slogans like “We deserve better leaders” and “Leaving no one behind!” highlighted public discontent with the current administration’s decisions.
International Concerns
The dismissal of Gallant has raised international concerns regarding the stability of Israel’s government amid an ongoing military conflict with Gaza. Some US officials have expressed concern, questioning the motivations behind Gallant’s removal and its implications for Israel’s security priorities.
Calls for Hostage Negotiation and Peace
Many Israelis are particularly focused on the hostages still held in Gaza, urging that their safe return should be a priority. Samuel Miller, a protester and teacher, expressed his dismay, stating that “Gallant is the only normal person in the government” and lamented the current administration’s inability to ensure safety for both Israelis and Palestinians. Miller echoed a sentiment shared by many at the rally, claiming Netanyahu’s government is “doing absolutely nothing to free the hostages.”
Netanyahu’s Justification
In his statement, Netanyahu cited a lack of trust in Gallant’s management of military affairs as the reason for the dismissal. Gallant had previously advocated for a ceasefire and negotiation to secure the hostages’ release. His successor, Israel Katz, has pledged to continue with Israel’s military objectives, targeting the defeat of Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, while facilitating the release of hostages.
US Reaction
The Biden administration, which initially refrained from criticizing Netanyahu’s decision, later expressed concerns over Gallant’s firing. A US official questioned Netanyahu’s motives, suggesting that the decision may stem from internal political reasons rather than genuine security concerns. “We have real questions about the reasons for Gallant’s firing and about what is driving the decision,” a US official told the Times of Israel.
Who is Israel Katz?
Israel Katz, a seasoned member of Netanyahu’s Likud party, steps into the role of Defence Minister amidst significant public unrest and ongoing military actions. Katz has experience in foreign affairs, intelligence, and energy but lacks Gallant’s extensive military background. Known for his firm stance on Iran and Palestinian militancy, Katz has vowed to aggressively pursue Israel’s military goals despite his limited experience in high-level defense operations.
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