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Netanyahu Fires Israeli Defense Minister Galant
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fires Defense Minister Joav Galant amidst war and widespread international criticism, sparking protests and raising concerns about the country's political stability.
German
Germany
PoliticsMiddle EastIsraelWarConflictGovernment
Israeli Defense ForcesHamasHisbollahUs GovernmentWhite House
Joav GalantBenjamin NetanyahuLloyd AustinJoe BidenDonald Trump
- Who is Joav Galant?
- Joav Galant is a 65-year-old former elite soldier and general in the Israeli army. He served as Israel's Defense Minister since late 2022 and was known for his pragmatic approach and good relations with the US government.
- What is behind the dismissal?
- The dismissal stems from policy differences. Galant favored a more diplomatic approach alongside military action, while Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition preferred a purely military solution. Galant's push to include ultra-orthodox in military service also threatened Netanyahu's coalition.
- Why was Galant fired at this time?
- Netanyahu's firing of Galant, especially on the day of the US election, might have been intended to preempt any White House retaliation. Netanyahu may have anticipated a more favorable relationship with a potential Trump presidency.
- What did Galant say about his dismissal?
- Galant stated he was fired for three reasons: demanding a fair distribution of defense burdens, insisting on returning hostages from Gaza, and calling for an investigation into the Hamas attack. He affirmed that Israel's security remained his priority.
- Why did Netanyahu fire his Defense Minister?
- Netanyahu stated that the trust between him and Galant had broken down. Galant's push for a deal to free hostages, questioning the goal of 'total victory,' and advocating for the ultra-orthodox to share defense burdens angered Netanyahu.