Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant Tuesday evening, citing a breakdown in trust during the country's ongoing war.
In a statement, Netanyahu stated that while there had been productive cooperation in the early months of the war, significant differences in strategy had emerged between him and Gallant in recent months.
"At a time of war, full trust between the prime minister and the defense minister is critical," Netanyahu said. "Unfortunately, this trust has eroded, and attempts to bridge the gaps have failed." He noted that the differences were not only made public in an "unacceptable manner" but had also reached Israel's enemies, who had "derived great benefit" from the situation.
Netanyahu announced that Israel Katz, a veteran politician and former minister of foreign affairs, finance, and intelligence, would replace Gallant as defense minister. Describing Katz as a "bulldozer" with a combination of "responsibility and quiet determination," Netanyahu praised his extensive experience and leadership, saying Katz was well-equipped to lead the defense effort during this critical period.