Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has strengthened his control over his coalition by dismissing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who was a prominent internal critic. This decision is expected to facilitate Netanyahu's ability to dictate wartime policy in the immediate future.
However, the dismissal carries long-term implications. By removing a popular rival who opposed several of his controversial policies, Netanyahu faces increased scrutiny regarding whether he prioritizes his personal political survival over the national interest.
Gallant had advocated for a cease-fire with Hamas, arguing it was essential for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Domestically, he sought to eliminate a military service exemption for ultra-Orthodox Jews, a move that risked destabilizing Netanyahu's government due to backlash from ultra-Orthodox coalition members.
Nadav Shtrauchler, a political analyst, noted that Netanyahu viewed Gallant as a rival within his coalition, and his departure allows Netanyahu to pursue his agenda more freely, both politically and militarily.
Netanyahu has denied intentions to dismiss other senior security officials following Gallant's exit. However, speculation arises that with the appointment of Israel Katz, perceived as a more compliant defense minister, Netanyahu may find it easier to remove military chief of staff Herzi Halevi.
The recent re-election of Donald J. Trump may mitigate potential backlash from Washington regarding Gallant's dismissal. The Biden administration had regarded Gallant as a reliable partner, but the election outcome has diminished its influence over Netanyahu's decisions.
Despite this, Netanyahu's actions have drawn criticism, suggesting he is prioritizing personal ambitions over national interests to appease far-right and ultra-Orthodox coalition members. His refusal to compromise in cease-fire negotiations with Hamas and the controversial military service exemption for ultra-Orthodox Jews may lead to future electoral repercussions.
As Israel engages in its longest war, many soldiers are completing multiple tours of duty, raising concerns about the perceived inequity in military service obligations, particularly regarding ultra-Orthodox exemptions. This discontent could grow, even among Netanyahu's conservative and religious base.
In response to Gallant's firing, tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets, blocking major highways, and media commentators expressed strong disapproval of Netanyahu's decision.
Allegations have also emerged that Netanyahu's office illegally obtained and leaked military documents to foreign media to undermine negotiations for a pause in the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu has denied these allegations, and one individual from his office has been arrested.
Analysts suggest that Netanyahu believes the backlash from Gallant's dismissal will be temporary, ultimately positioning him more favorably. However, support for the policies opposed by Gallant could have long-term consequences for Netanyahu's political standing.
While Gallant was aligned with Netanyahu on key military issues, his independent stance and relationship with the Biden administration had become a source of tension. Gallant's public disagreements with Netanyahu began prior to the ongoing conflict, particularly regarding judicial reforms, and he had previously been dismissed and reinstated amid widespread protests.
During the war, Gallant had also broached the topic of Palestinian governance in postwar Gaza, a subject Netanyahu has avoided to maintain support from far-right allies. Gallant's independent rapport with the Biden administration further complicated Netanyahu's already strained relations with President Biden.