Thousands of Israelis are protesting in Jerusalem and across the country against Prime Minister Netanyahu's decision to dismiss Defense Minister Gallant.
The nationwide protests erupted after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on November 5 his decision to dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, which would take effect on the evening of November 7. He appointed Foreign Minister Israel Katz as Gallant’s replacement, citing Katz's "proven capabilities and contributions to national security."
In Jerusalem, protesters gathered near the parliament building immediately following the announcement, demanding that the Prime Minister reverse what they described as a "politically motivated" decision. Several major roads in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv were blocked by the crowds.
Netanyahu stated that Gallant was dismissed due to "erosion of trust over the past few months." Gallant, known for his hardline stance against Hezbollah in Lebanon, often clashed with Netanyahu over the direction of the Gaza conflict. In August, Netanyahu criticized Gallant for making "oppositional remarks" after he was reported to favor a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. In response to his dismissal, Gallant affirmed that Israel's security remains his "life mission."
A survey conducted by Israeli media on the night of November 6 revealed that 55% of the public opposed Gallant’s dismissal. Former Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon, who joined the protests outside parliament, expressed skepticism about the move.
"No one expected Netanyahu to replace an experienced defense minister with someone inexperienced amid an ongoing regional conflict," Ya'alon stated.
In addition to urging the Prime Minister to reverse his decision, protesters in Jerusalem demanded the government reach an agreement for the release of hostages in Gaza, establish a commission to investigate the failures surrounding Hamas's border raid on October 7, 2023. Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza, which has lasted for over a year, has resulted in more than 43,300 deaths, primarily civilians, according to regional health authorities. The Israel-Hamas conflict has also drawn various Iran-backed forces into efforts against Tel Aviv, most notably Hezbollah.
A senior Hamas official stated on October 24 that the group is prepared to end hostilities if Israel agrees to a ceasefire, withdraws from Gaza, allows displaced residents to return home, seriously negotiates a prisoner exchange deal, and permits humanitarian aid to enter the area.
However, Prime Minister Netanyahu has reiterated his intention to achieve a "decisive victory" in Gaza by "eliminating" Hamas, despite the prolonged conflict.
(According to Times of Israel, Washington Post, Al Jazeera)
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