Netanyahu’s firing of defense minister mid-war sparks criticism, protest

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's dismissal of his defense minister amid its war in the Gaza Strip has sparked a torrent of backlash, reverberating through government circles and igniting public outrage in the streets.

The demonstration erupted soon after Netanyahu's Office late on Nov. 5 announced the sacking of Yoav Gallant, a hawk on the war Hezbollah in Lebanon who also pushed for a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza, following public differences over the wars.

"Over the past few months... trust has eroded. In light of this, I decided today to end the term of the defense minister," Netanyahu's office said, adding that Foreign Minister Israel Katz would take his place.

Shortly afterwards, thousands of people took to the streets of commercial hub Tel Aviv, chanting slogans against Netanyahu and demanding the return of 97 hostages.

Protesters blocked traffic and lit fires, with some wearing "Bring them home now!" T-shirts referring to the hostages.

They held up signs with slogans such as "We deserve better leaders" and "Leaving no one behind!" and one protester wore handcuffs and a face mask with Netanyahu's likeness.

Gideon Saar, a minister without portfolio, was appointed to replace Katz as foreign minister.

Gallant reveals three main reasons for his dismissal

After being fired, Gallant posted on X that Israel's security would remain his life's "mission."

Gallant attributed his dismissal to three core policy disputes with Netanyahu.

The first centered on Gallant's unwavering conviction that military service should be a universal obligation, citing the ongoing conflict's heavy toll on Israeli soldiers, men and women alike.

He criticized the exemption...