Netanyahu sacks Gallant, appoints Katz as security minister
3 Min Read
According to Netanyahu, the "shattered trust" between him and Security Minister Gallant was behind the dismissal.
-
Israeli occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Security Minister Yoav Gallant before a session to vote on the amendment of the judiciary law. (Undated, AP)
According to Israeli media, Israeli occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sacked Security Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday evening, citing a breach of trust during the continued war on Gaza.
In a statement, Netanyahu noted that substantial strategic disagreements had surfaced between him and Gallant recently. Last month, Israeli media reported that Netanyahu was seeking to dismiss Gallant, citing his "obstruction of expanding the attack on Lebanon."
Netanyahu stressed that full trust is "critical" between a PM and a security minister during a war, adding that "Unfortunately, this trust has eroded, and attempts to bridge the gaps have failed."
He asserted that the disagreements were not only made public in an "unacceptable manner," but also reached "Israel's" opponents, who had "derived great benefit" from the matter.
While "free discussion" is part of his decision-making process, the public nature of the trust issue made it difficult to maintain the existing working relationship, Netanyahu stated, explaining how "This crisis has become public knowledge and prevents the proper management of the war effort."
He went on to say that the majority of government and security cabinet members felt the same way.
Katz appointed instead of Gallant
Israel Katz, politician and former minister of international affairs, finance, and intelligence, will succeed Gallant as security minister. Netanyahu described Katz as a "bulldozer" with "responsibility and quiet determination," praising his considerable expertise and leadership, adding Katz was well-suited to head the war effort at this crucial time.
Netanyahu also disclosed that he has requested former "Justice Minister" Gideon Saar to join the cabinet as foreign minister. Netanyahu expressed confidence that Saar's presence would improve the cabinet and coalition stability, which he regarded as critical during a war.
"I am convinced these steps will reinforce the government and the cabinet, ensuring they work together in harmony for the security of Israel and the victory of the nation," Netanyahu expressed.
Israeli media reported days ago that Chief of Staff of the Israeli Army Herzi Halevi and Security Minister Yoav Gallant were intensifying pressure on Israeli occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a ceasefire agreement.
According to The Jerusalem Post, the Israeli occupation military is seeking to move closer to a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, as it believes that only limited military gains can be achieved amid increasing frustration from the number of casualties recorded as the IOF face strong resistance across all fronts.
The report further stated that Halevi and Gallant have urged Netanyahu to pursue a ceasefire that would facilitate the return of the 101 Israeli captives, both living and dead, held by Palestinian Resistance factions in Gaza.
During speeches at an officer graduation ceremony on Thursday, the two senior military officials emphasized, “Time is of the essence to return the hostages, which most officials now agree will only happen, if at all, through a deal of some kind with Hamas.”
