Israel’s Netanyahu fires defense minister, saying mutual trust has ‘cracked’

Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu fired the country’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday evening, citing a “crisis of trust” between the two men.

“To my sorrow, although in the first months of battle there was this trust, and very fertile work, in recent months this trust was cracked,” Netanyahu said in a video.

“In the midst of a war, more than ever, total trust is needed between PM and defense minister … my highest obligation as Israel’s prime minister is to guard Israel’s security, and to bring us to total victory.”

Gallant will be replaced by Foreign Minister Israel Katz, while Gideon Sa’ar, a minister without a portfolio, will replace Katz as foreign minister, the Prime Minister’s Office announced.

The Biden administration has had a relatively good relationship with Gallant — as opposed to with Netanyahu himself, who has often frustrated the White House with his inconstancy.

“Minister Gallant has been an important partner on all matters related to the defense of Israel,” a U.S. State Department spokesman said. “As close partners, we will continue to work collaboratively with Israel’s next Minister of Defense. We refer you to the Israeli government for more information on its personnel decisions.”

Daniella Cheslow contributed reporting.