Thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s dismissal of Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, demanding that the government focus on bringing home the hostages held in Gaza. The protests erupted shortly after Netanyahu’s office announced Gallant’s removal due to ongoing disagreements over the war with Hamas.
Gallant, a staunch advocate for Israel’s military strategy in Gaza and Lebanon, had clashed with Netanyahu over key aspects of the war, including the approach to hostages and military conscription. The timing of his dismissal, on the same day as the U.S. presidential election, added to the political tensions.
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Protesters chanted slogans, blocked traffic, and burned fires, calling for the immediate return of the 97 hostages held by Hamas. Signs and T-shirts with messages like “Bring them home now!” and “We deserve better leaders” were seen, while one protester wore a mask of Netanyahu’s likeness.
Following Gallant’s firing, Foreign Minister Israel Katz was appointed as the new Defence Minister. Katz vowed to continue the war objectives, including the destruction of Hamas and Hezbollah, and the return of hostages.
Gallant, in a post after his dismissal, reiterated that Israel’s security would remain his life’s mission. He called on the government to act swiftly to bring home the hostages while they were still alive and emphasized that all Israelis of draft age should serve in the military, a point of contention with Netanyahu.
The protests reflected deep divisions over the government’s handling of the conflict and its approach to military service and hostages. Hamas also welcomed Gallant’s dismissal, with a spokesperson claiming that while Gallant may be gone, Hamas remains.
