People throughout Israel protest the dismissal of the defense minister
Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Gallant have often been at odds over Israel's war on Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unexpectedly dismissed Defense Minister Yoav Gallant while the country faces conflicts on several regional fronts. The decision triggered protests nationwide on Tuesday, including a large gathering that brought central Tel Aviv to a standstill.
Netanyahu and Gallant had repeatedly disagreed over Israel's actions in Gaza, but Netanyahu had previously refrained from firing Gallant, especially with global attention on the U.S. presidential election. Netanyahu attributed the dismissal to “significant gaps” and a “crisis of trust,” appointing Israel Katz, the foreign minister and a longtime ally, as Gallant’s replacement.
Soon after the announcement, thousands of protesters flooded central Tel Aviv, blocking the main highway and causing widespread traffic disruptions. Many waved Israeli flags, blew whistles, beat drums, and gathered around bonfires. Additional protests occurred outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem and other parts of the city.
Demonstrators also blocked roads in several locations across Israel, with TV footage showing clashes between police and protesters.
