Protests erupt across Israel as Netanyahu fires defence minister; key points – Times of India

Thousands of Israelis took to the streets late Tuesday, protesting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, news agency AFP reported. 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, gathered in Tel Aviv’s Ayalon Highway, blocking traffic and lighting fires as they chanted anti-government slogans. Many demonstrators wore shirts and held signs reading “Bring them home now!” in reference to Israeli hostages in Gaza, and criticised Netanyahu for his perceived failure to protect the country from last year’s Hamas attack. “We deserve better leaders” and “Leaving no one behind!” were frequent slogans, showing public discontent with the current administration’s decisions.
The dismissal of Gallant has triggered concerns internationally, with questions about the stability of Israel’s government amid an ongoing military conflict with Gaza. Some US officials have voiced concern, questioning the motivations behind Gallant’s removal and its impact on Israel’s security priorities.
Calls for hostage negotiation and peace
Many Israelis are particularly concerned about the hostages still held in Gaza, urging that their safe return should be a priority. Samuel Miller, a protester and teacher, expressed dismay, stating that “Gallant is the only normal person in the government” and lamenting that the current administration is failing to ensure safety for both Israelis and Palestinians. According to Miller, Netanyahu’s government is “doing absolutely nothing to free the hostages,” a sentiment shared by many at the rally.
What Netanyahu said
In his statement, Netanyahu cited a lack of trust in Gallant’s management of military affairs as the reason for the dismissal. Gallant, previously known for his hawkish stance, had reportedly advocated for a ceasefire and negotiation to free hostages. His successor, Israel Katz, pledged to continue with Israel’s military goals, aiming for the defeat of Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and to facilitate the release of hostages.
US Reaction
The Biden administration, which initially refrained from criticising Netanyahu’s decision, later expressed concerns over Gallant’s firing. A US official questioned Netanyahu’s motives, suggesting the decision may stem from internal political reasons rather than 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 action. Katz’s experience includes roles in foreign affairs, intelligence, and energy, though he lacks Gallant’s extensive military background. Known for his firm stance on Iran and Palestinian militancy, Katz has vowed to pursue Israel’s military goals aggressively, despite limited experience in high-level defence operations.