GALLANT FIRED, TRUMP ELECTED – with Nadav Eyal & Amit Segal
Nov 7, 2024
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Nadav Eyal is a prominent Israeli journalist with two decades of experience in Middle Eastern and international politics, while Amit Segal serves as the chief political correspondent for Channel 12 News. They discuss the shocking firing of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant by Netanyahu amid U.S. political shifts. The conversation digs into military conscription controversies in Israel, the implications of political maneuvering during wartime, and Trump's complex relationship with the Republican Party regarding Israel. They also address rising anti-Semitism and U.S. support for Israel.
Netanyahu's dismissal of Defense Minister Gallant reveals political maneuvering amidst public dissatisfaction and a divided Israeli political landscape.
The implications of Trump's perceived victory on U.S.-Israeli relations may embolden Netanyahu's military strategies and influence internal political dynamics.
Deep dives
The Dramatic Firing of Yoav Gallant
The termination of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is a significant event in Israeli politics, exacerbated by the ongoing war. Prime Minister Netanyahu's decision to fire Gallant appears to be heavily influenced by political maneuvering rather than purely operational considerations. Previously, Gallant had warned against Netanyahu's judicial overhaul, suggesting it could compromise Israeli security, leading Netanyahu to attempt to dismiss him earlier in 2023. The recent firing underscores a deepening divide between Gallant's position and Netanyahu's desire to maintain control over the defense establishment amidst rising public dissatisfaction.
Gallant's Popularity and Military Leadership
Yoav Gallant's rising popularity stands in stark contrast to Prime Minister Netanyahu's declining approval ratings, largely due to the ongoing war and its demands on Israeli society. Gallant has emerged as a prominent figure in military leadership, with many Israelis attributing a sense of responsibility and effectiveness to him during the conflict. His commitment to addressing the conscription issues, particularly regarding exemptions for ultra-Orthodox citizens during wartime, resonates with the frustrations of the military community and their families. This tension highlights the struggles within the Israeli government as it navigates public sentiment and military duties.
Political Maneuvers Behind the Firing
Netanyahu's desire to fire Gallant can be seen as an effort to consolidate power and eliminate a rising opposition within his own government. The move highlights the political landscape in Israel, where the defense minister often plays a critical role akin to an opposition leader, especially in times of crisis. Gallant's rejection of waiving military conscription for the ultra-Orthodox community was perceived by Netanyahu as a direct threat to his authority that needed to be neutralized. The appointment of Israel Katz, a figure with lesser military experience, signals Netanyahu's intention to strengthen his grip on both the government and military decision-making.
Impact of U.S. Elections on Israeli Politics
The U.S. election results, particularly Trump’s perceived victory, have significant implications for Israeli politics and Netanyahu's strategy moving forward. The expectation that Trump might pursue a stronger alliance with Israel could embolden Netanyahu to adopt a more aggressive military posture in the region. Israeli leaders are keenly aware that their security strategy could drastically shift depending on the support they receive from the U.S., which complicates their internal political actions. As Netanyahu navigates this environment, the fallout from Gallant's firing may influence how both Israeli leadership and the military engage with American counterparts in the coming months.
Last night in Israel, in what came as a shock to many Israelis, Prime Minister Netanyahu fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
At the same time, there was a Red Wave that swept through U.S. politics.
As Israelis and Americans simultaneously process these two 180 degree pivots in their respective political systems, we are joined by two CallMeBack regulars to discuss both stories:
Nadav Eyal is a columnist for Yediiot. He is one of Israel’s leading journalists. Eyal has been covering Middle-Eastern and international politics for the last two decades for Israeli radio, print and television news.
Amit Segal is the chief political correspondent and analyst for Channel 12 News, and for Yediot Ahronot, the country’s largest circulation newspaper.
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