Netanyahu Fires Defense Minister Gallant Amid War and Draft Dispute

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has sparked a storm of political backlash, intensifying the ongoing debate over military conscription laws for ultra-Orthodox men. The Movement for Quality Government in Israel has urged Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara to investigate the legality of Gallant’s termination, claiming that the move prioritizes “personal and political interests above the good of the state and the security of its citizens.”

Gallant’s Opposition to Haredi Draft Exemptions

Gallant, a vocal critic of proposed legislation to exempt yeshiva students from military service, was dismissed shortly after approving the drafting of an additional 7,000 ultra-Orthodox men into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This bill, backed by Netanyahu’s coalition, seeks to circumvent a High Court ruling that blocks state-funded daycare subsidies for children of ultra-Orthodox men who have not completed military service. Gallant was widely expected to oppose the bill, which has been a contentious issue in the Knesset.

Reactions from Opposition and Hostage Families

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, representing relatives of Israelis held captive since the October 7 Hamas attack, condemned Gallant’s firing as an “attempt to torpedo” efforts to negotiate their release. The group demanded that Gallant’s successor, Israel Katz, prioritize a “comprehensive deal” for the safe return of all hostages.

Opposition leaders, including Yair Golan of The Democrats and Benny Gantz of National Unity, have called on citizens to protest, accusing Netanyahu of undermining national security for political gains. “Netanyahu is destroying Israel, and only we can save it,” tweeted Golan, urging Israelis to take to the streets.

Unprecedented Police Raid on Netanyahu’s Office

In a separate development, police conducted a rare raid on Netanyahu’s office, part of a criminal investigation reportedly related to potential leaks of sensitive wartime intelligence. The Prime Minister’s Office labeled the investigation a “hunting expedition” and claimed selective enforcement against Netanyahu and his staff, while others who allegedly leaked intelligence remained uninvestigated.

Internal Rifts and Coalition Tensions

Netanyahu’s coalition has faced mounting pressure from ultra-Orthodox parties, who demanded the Daycare Bill remain on the Knesset agenda. Netanyahu’s recent decision to pull the bill led to threats of reduced coalition support from United Torah Judaism, highlighting the precarious balance within the government as it grapples with complex social and security issues.

Gallant, who issued a brief statement affirming his lifelong commitment to Israel’s security, was dismissed amid these growing tensions. Netanyahu cited a “crisis of faith” with Gallant, alleging that Gallant’s actions had aided Israel’s enemies by undermining cabinet decisions.

Looking Ahead

With a high-profile ministerial change during an active conflict, Israel’s political landscape faces increasing polarization. The dispute over Haredi military exemptions and the ongoing investigations into Netanyahu’s wartime management underscore the intense challenges Israel’s leadership must confront in the days ahead.