Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday, criticized his defense minister, Yoav Gallant, deepening the divisions within the government as the Middle East faces a critical week.
According to New York Times, this tension arises amid fears of a broader regional conflict and ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent it.
Netanyahu took issue with Gallant after reports emerged that Gallant had dismissed Netanyahu’s aim for a “total victory” over Hamas in Gaza, labeling it as “nonsense” during a private security briefing.
The prime minister’s office responded, stating that Gallant’s remarks harmed prospects for a hostage-release deal, emphasizing that Netanyahu’s directives regarding victory over Hamas and hostages are mandatory for all officials, including Gallant.
This public reprimand coincides with heightened tensions in the region.
The United States has increased its military presence, deploying the guided-missile submarine Georgia.
Iran and its key ally, Hezbollah, have pledged retaliation for recent deaths—Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut.
Iran accuses Israel of Haniyeh’s killing, a claim Israel neither confirms nor denies, though U.S. officials privately suspect Israeli involvement.
Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has promised “severe punishment” for the attack on Iranian soil.
In response, Netanyahu has vowed to impose a “heavy price” for any aggression against Israel.
Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari assured the public of readiness for both offensive and defensive actions according to government directives.
White House national security spokesman John F. Kirby revealed that President Biden had discussed the escalating situation with European leaders, and the U.S. shares Israel’s concern over a possible Iranian attack this week.
The White House remains hopeful that Gaza cease-fire talks will proceed as planned, although Iranian aggression could disrupt these efforts.
Biden, alongside leaders from Egypt and Qatar, is prepared to present a “final” cease-fire proposal at an upcoming meeting in Cairo or Doha.
A joint statement from Biden, and leaders from Britain, France, Germany, and Italy emphasized the urgency of this effort and urged Iran to de-escalate.
Despite Netanyahu’s criticism of Gallant, the defense minister has not been dismissed. On Monday, Gallant reiterated his commitment to achieving the war’s objectives, including dismantling Hamas and securing the return of hostages.
He did not confirm or deny labeling Netanyahu’s victory goal as “nonsense,” though an Israeli lawmaker present at the briefing confirmed the term was used.
The Israeli military continues its offensive, urging civilians to evacuate parts of Gaza as it targets what it describes as “embedded terrorist infrastructure.”
Despite these efforts, many in Gaza report dire conditions, with basic necessities lacking even in designated humanitarian zones.
In the midst of these developments, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has reiterated America’s commitment to Israel’s defense, including the strategic deployment of additional military resources to the region.
