Israeli PM Netanyahu fires defence minister Gallant

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, citing a loss of confidence in his management of Israel’s ongoing wars in Gaza and Lebanon.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, with Netanyahu stating that the erosion of trust in Gallant had led to the decision to end his tenure.

In a statement released by his office, Netanyahu explained, “Over the past few months, that trust has eroded. In light of this, I decided today to end the term of the defence minister.”

Shortly after the announcement, Gallant responded on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing his commitment to Israel’s security, stating, “Working to ensure Israel’s security will always remain the mission of my life.”

In a subsequent move, Netanyahu appointed Israel Katz, a senior member of the Likud party, as Gallant’s successor. Katz, who has held various government positions, including Minister of Finance, is expected to take over the crucial role amid the ongoing security challenges facing Israel.

Gallant, a former general in the Israel Defense Forces, had served as the defence minister since 2022.