Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu May Dismiss Defense Minister Amid Lebanon Crisis
Conflict Between Netanyahu and Gallant
In the midst of ongoing speculation in the Israeli media, it seems that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may soon dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This move would significantly change the composition of his cabinet. The two have been in disagreement over war strategy, particularly concerning the situation in northern Israel, which is under daily attack from Lebanese Hezbollah via rockets and drones.
According to Israeli news outlet Ynet, Netanyahu is preparing for Gallant’s dismissal in the near future.
Gallant's Stance on Hezbollah and Hamas
Gallant is reportedly advocating for avoiding an immediate escalation of the war with Hezbollah in the north. This stance is in contrast with the army’s Northern Command chief Ori Gordin, who is urging the government to approve a large-scale operation in Lebanon to eliminate Hezbollah.
Gallant has also been embroiled in controversy over a potential peace deal and hostage exchange with Hamas. The defense chief supports securing a deal quickly, a position that Netanyahu has resisted, favoring a military solution instead.
Public Protests and Potential Cabinet Changes
This political divide at the top is reflected in the unrest on the streets, with protests involving hundreds of thousands occurring in Tel Aviv for several days and weeks. The protests are led by the families of the hostage victims, who hold Netanyahu responsible for delaying a truce deal.
Ynet's sources have revealed that Gallant has been informed of the intention to replace him with Gideon Saar. The Prime Minister is reportedly close to making this decision.
However, the key divisive issue at the moment is the Hezbollah situation and Israel's strategy for what comes next.
Views on Israel's Strategy with Hezbollah
Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, the head of the Israel Defense Force’s Northern Command, is advocating for a large-scale incursion into Lebanon. However, Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi have expressed doubts about launching a war against Hezbollah, perceived to be a more formidable enemy than the Hamas terror group Israel is currently fighting in Gaza.
According to reports, Gallant believes now is not the right time for such action and wants to give a chance to efforts to achieve a diplomatic solution in the north and a ceasefire-hostage deal in Gaza.
Possible Impact on US-Israel Relations
If Netanyahu does dismiss Gallant, this could potentially strain relations with Washington further. Internal Israeli cabinet tensions have also centered on managing the relationship with the United States and ensuring that arms transfers are not jeopardized.
The Biden administration seems to be favoring 'moderates' within the coalition government and would like to see some kind of ceasefire deal ahead of the November election, which could potentially boost their poll numbers. However, this seems unlikely given the current situation in Gaza.
Bottom Line
The potential dismissal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a significant development in Israeli politics. It reflects a deep divide over the handling of the Hezbollah situation and the possibility of a peace deal with Hamas. This decision could have far-reaching implications, not only for Israel's domestic politics but also for its relationship with the United States. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. You can also sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
