Netanyahu fires defence minister

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed his popular defence minister, Yoav Gallant, in a surprise announcement that sparked a mass gathering that paralysed central Tel Aviv

Yoav Gallant, 65: Former general has repeatedly been at odds with Netanyahu over war in Gaza

Issues: End to controversial exemptions from military draft for Ultra-Orthodox men

Hamas: Urgent need for hostage deal – about 100 of 250 hostages remain in captivity, about 65 believed still alive

Commission of inquiry: Required into political and security failures of Oct 2023 Hamas attacks

Benjamin Netanyahu, 75: Prime Minister cited “significant gaps” and a “crisis of trust”
Gallant’s dismissal stirs public discontent

Hostages: Many families of hostages, along with tens of thousands of people, accuse Netanyahu of scuttling Hamas deal in order to maintain his hold on power

Ultra-Orthodox partners: Threat to bring down government if Netanyahu makes concessions to Hamas

Israel Katz, 69: Newly appointed defence minister, longtime hardline Netanyahu loyalist. Married with
two children

1973-77: Drafted into Israeli army as junior officer – has little military experience

1998: Serves in Knesset (parliament), representing Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party
   
Nov 4, 2024: Katz withdraws from 1967 agreement recognising UNRWA – Palestinian refugee agency
   
Sources: All Israel News, Associated Press, Reuters Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS