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Former Defense Minister and senior Likud member Yoav Gallant announced his resignation from the Knesset on Wednesday evening, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for jeopardizing Israel’s security.
Despite stepping down, Gallant affirmed his loyalty to the Likud party, signaling his intention to remain active in politics and potentially challenge for the party’s leadership.
In a televised address, Gallant reflected on his extensive career, which includes 35 years in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and a decade as a lawmaker.
He claimed responsibility for military actions against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran during his tenure as defense minister but also acknowledged his accountability for the lead-up to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack and the ongoing conflict.
Gallant expressed his disapproval of the government’s efforts to codify military exemptions for much of the ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community, labeling their enlistment a “military necessity.”
He claimed his dismissal as defense minister in November stemmed from his refusal to compromise on the issue, accusing Netanyahu and current Defense Minister Israel Katz of endangering national security.
“There can be no victory until the hostages held by Hamas are returned,” Gallant stated, underscoring his dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the war.
Resignation Amid Political Tensions
Gallant’s departure has sparked speculation about its implications for controversial legislation granting ultra-Orthodox military exemptions.
His opposition to the measure had made him a prominent critic within the coalition. Analysts suggest his resignation might smooth the bill’s passage, a prospect that has drawn criticism from opposition leaders.
Opposition Leader Yair Lapid condemned the legislation as a betrayal of Israel’s soldiers and war casualties, while former Defense Minister Benny Gantz urged Gallant to reconsider his resignation and continue opposing the bill from within the Knesset.
Similarly, Yisrael Beytenu Chairman Avigdor Liberman argued that stepping down now would strengthen proponents of the exemptions.
Likud Party Fallout
Gallant’s resignation appears to preempt potential ousting from Likud. Reports suggest coalition whip Ofir Katz was preparing a case to declare Gallant a renegade member, barring him from running under Likud’s banner in future elections.
Likud MK Avichay Buaron criticized Gallant’s conduct, accusing him of disloyalty to the party and the coalition.
Fellow Likud members, including Tally Gotliv and Moshe Saada, echoed these sentiments. Gotliv accused Gallant of defeatism and undermining Netanyahu’s government, while Saada dismissed Gallant’s criticisms as political posturing for a future left-leaning coalition.
A Likely Successor
Gallant is expected to be replaced in the Knesset by Abed Afif, a Druze representative on the Likud list. Afif’s appointment would make him the only Druze lawmaker in the governing coalition.
Gallant concluded his address by emphasizing his continued commitment to the Likud movement and its values.
“As on the battlefield, so too in public service, there are moments when you have to stop to assess the situation and choose the course of action,” he said, signaling that his political journey is far from over.