Netanyahu Replaces Defence Minister Amid Ongoing Conflict
Yoav Gallant Ousted Over Disagreement on Gaza Conflict Strategy
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Defence Minister Yoav Gallant amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East, appointing former Foreign Minister Israel Katz as his successor.
This decision came in the wake of Gallant's call for a ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Gaza, contrasting Netanyahu's aggressive military policy against Hamas.
The sacking occurs during U.S. elections, a critical time given America's strategic alliance with Israel.
The conflict, ignited by Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel that killed 1,206 people, has since seen Israel's military retaliation result in over 43,391 deaths in Gaza.
Hostilities have spilled over into Lebanon, where Israeli air raids have been reported, and a Hezbollah-targeted building in Jiyeh was struck.
Hezbollah retaliated with attacks on northern Israel.
Meanwhile, in Syria, Israeli forces targeted a weapons storage facility linked to Hezbollah.
The West Bank also saw violent clashes, resulting in seven Palestinian deaths.
Amidst these developments, Gazans express hope that the U.S. election outcome could shift American policy towards ending the conflict.