His comments highlighted growing tensions and disagreements with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which culminated in Gallant's dismissal just days prior.
Gallant told the families of captives that there was "nothing left in Gaza to do" and that Israel had already achieved its primary military objectives. He argued that the decision to maintain Israeli forces in Gaza was not rooted in security concerns but in what he described as a "desire to be there."
Gallant also revealed that Netanyahu had justified the ongoing military presence as a diplomatic issue, but the outgoing defense minister disagreed. "I can tell you there was no diplomatic consideration," Gallant said. He added that, in his view, the conditions for a ceasefire had been ripe as early as July, but Netanyahu, who has consistently advocated for continued military pressure on Hamas, rejected this approach. (Related: Mass protests in Israel after Netanyahu fires his defense minister in desperate bid to hold onto power.)
His comments exposed a significant rift within Israel’s leadership. Netanyahu's decision to sack Gallant, citing a "lack of mutual trust" and disagreements over "war management," highlighted deep divisions between the two.
Netanyahu also accused Gallant of "indirectly aiding" Israel’s enemies – an accusation that has added fuel to the controversy surrounding Gallant's departure.
Gallant's background sets him apart from Netanyahu, particularly in terms of military experience. Gallant, a former navy commando and major general, has decades of experience in Israeli military operations. His expertise and respect within the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) often put him at odds with Netanyahu, whose approach to security is heavily influenced more by political considerations rather than military rationales.
Gallant wanted to prioritize release of hostages
After Hamas' deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, Gallant initially supported military action in Gaza. However, as the war dragged on, Gallant became increasingly vocal about the need for a shift in strategy. He argued that Israel should prioritize securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and push for a ceasefire, but Netanyahu insisted that continued military pressure was the key to freeing the hostages and defeating Hamas.
Gallant also expressed concerns about Israel's lack of a post-war strategy. He warned that the country had no clear plan for what would happen once the conflict ended. Netanyahu, however, remained focused on immediate military objectives and rejected Gallant's calls for a comprehensive post-war strategy.
Additionally, Gallant was frustrated by Netanyahu's failure to address the issue of ultra-Orthodox exemptions to the military draft, arguing that in a time of war, Israel could not afford such exemptions. Netanyahu, who relies on ultra-Orthodox political support to keep himself in power, ignored these concerns.
Gallant's dismissal has broader implications for Israel's political and military future. Netanyahu has appointed Israel Katz, the former foreign minister, as the new defense minister. Katz supports Netanyahu's approach to the war. However, Katz lacks Gallant's military experience, raising concerns about his ability to manage the complex challenges Israel faces in Gaza and Lebanon.
This development raises questions about the direction of Israel's military strategy and its political leadership. With Netanyahu consolidating power, Gallant’s dismissal marks the end of one chapter in Israeli politics. His exit has left a significant mark on Israel's leadership at a critical time.
Watch this video discussing Gallant's dismissal from Netanyahu's cabinet.
This video is from the channel The Prisoner on Brighteon.com.
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