Netanyahu Critiques Defense Minister Gallant Over War Strategy

Netanyahu Criticizes Defense Minister Over War Strategy

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched a scathing critique of his defense minister, Yoav Gallant, on Monday following reports from Israeli news media that Gallant had belittled Netanyahu’s ambitious goal of achieving “total victory” over Hamas, the militant group that Israel has been engaged in conflict with in Gaza for nearly 11 months.

This public rebuke from Netanyahu’s office highlights a growing rift within his right-wing government and reflects broader divisions within Israeli society regarding the ongoing war. According to Ynet, a centrist news outlet in Israel, Gallant had told members of the Israeli Parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Netanyahu’s rhetoric concerning “total victory” was nothing more than “nonsense.” A committee member, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Gallant indeed used that terminology during a closed-door meeting.

The Prime Minister’s office responded sharply, stating, “When Gallant adopts the anti-Israel narrative, he undermines the prospects of negotiating a hostage release deal.” They emphasized that Israel has a singular objective: to achieve total victory, which entails dismantling Hamas’s military and governance capabilities while ensuring the safe return of hostages. The statement further asserted, “This victory will be accomplished.”

Netanyahu’s office underscored that realizing this goal is the directive set forth by the Prime Minister and the cabinet, a mandate that all members of the government, including Gallant, are expected to adhere to.

In an apparent attempt to mitigate tensions, Gallant took to social media, downplaying his differences with Netanyahu. He stated, “During a security briefing I provided today to the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, I reiterated my commitment to achieving the goals of this war and to continue fighting until Hamas is dismantled and our hostages are returned.”