**Netanyahu Dismisses Defense Minister Amid Multiple Regional Conflicts**

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the unexpected dismissal of his Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday. This decision comes during a time when Israel is deeply involved in multiple regional conflicts. The sacking prompted significant protests throughout the country.

Netanyahu and Gallant have had several public disagreements regarding the war in Gaza. Netanyahu previously hesitated to dismiss Gallant, especially with global attention skewed towards the recent U.S. presidential election. In his announcement, Netanyahu cited "significant gaps" and a "crisis of trust," emphasizing the necessity of full confidence between the prime minister and the defense minister during wartime.

Initially, Israel's leadership had shown a united front in response to Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023. However, divisions revealed themselves as the conflict extended to Lebanon and Netanyahu maintained his stance on continued military pressure on Hamas. In contrast, Gallant advocated for identifying conditions conducive to a temporary diplomatic resolution to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas militants.

Families of the hostages and numerous anti-government protesters have accused Netanyahu of forsaking a potential negotiation to maintain political power. The prime minister's right-wing partners have threatened to dissolve the governing coalition if any concessions to Hamas are made, potentially triggering early elections at a time when Netanyahu’s popularity is at a low ebb.

The decision to dismiss Gallant incited immediate public outcry. Tens of thousands of people protested, including a large gathering in central Tel Aviv where they obstructed the main highway. Around 1,000 protesters assembled outside Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem, and protests disrupted several other parts of the country.

Gallant’s discharge occurred amid a delicate military situation. Israeli forces have been engaged in Gaza for over a year, dealing with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon for a month, and clashing with Iranian-backed entities in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. Furthermore, Israel remains vigilant against the potential for another strike by Iran.

Netanyahu's decision was reportedly influenced by Gallant's recent move to draft thousands of young ultra-Orthodox men, who are traditionally exempt from military service, to bolster national security. This long-standing exemption has caused discontent among Israel's secular majority, and the Supreme Court has mandated its elimination.

Gallant, a former general known for his no-nonsense demeanor, expressed his lifelong commitment to Israel’s security and had a respected rapport with his U.S. counterpart, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Gallant is expected to address the nation later on Tuesday.

Netanyahu’s pick to replace Gallant, Israel Katz, has pledged to lead Israel to victory against its enemies. Katz, currently the Foreign Minister, has little military experience but has long been a loyalist to Netanyahu. Former rival Gideon Saar will take over the foreign affairs post.