Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to dismiss Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and replace him with Gideon Sa’ar, leader of the National Right Party, according to Israeli media on Monday.
The discord between Netanyahu and Gallant centres on their differing views regarding the escalating situation on the border with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Gallant advocates for diplomatic efforts to ease tensions, while Netanyahu favours a more aggressive military strategy.
Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported that discussions are underway between Netanyahu’s team and Sa’ar regarding the potential replacement. However, sources within Netanyahu’s Likud Party have denied that any formal agreement has been made.
Sa’ar, who left Likud to establish his own party in 2020, has re-emerged as a significant figure in Israeli politics. Gallant has faced criticism from Netanyahu’s right-wing allies, including far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
“For many months, I have been calling on Prime Minister Netanyahu to fire Gallant, and the time has come to do so immediately,” said Ben-Gvir on social media. “A decision must be made in the north and Gallant is not the right man to lead it.”
Sa’ar’s potential appointment could indicate shifts in Israel’s strategy regarding both the Lebanon and Gaza conflicts.