According to The Jerusalem Post, outgoing Israeli Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, has reacted to his sack by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In an impassioned speech on Tuesday at the Kirya in Tel Aviv, a few hours after his sack, Gallant said “moral darkness” has fallen on Israel.
“My priorities have always remained constant and clear: the State of Israel, the IDF, and the security establishment,” Gallant said.
He further said that one needs a compass to navigate in times of darkness, suggesting that Netanyahu was not doing so.
According to him, he was sacked for three reasons.
First, for his opposition to a “corrupt” bill being promoted by Netanyahu to exempt haredim from IDF service, arguing that it was unacceptable considering the security challenges that will confront the country in the coming years.
Regarding this, he said: “We must not allow a discriminatory and corrupt law to pass in the Knesset and exempt tens of thousands from bearing the burden.
Second, for his stand on a hostage deal. According to him, a deal was “possible” albeit with “some painful compromises,” which the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) cope with. He argued that abandoning the hostages would be a “mark of Cain” on Israeli society, insisting that the remaining living hostages must be returned.
And third, Netanyahu’s unwillingness to form a National Commission of Inquiry to probe the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, arguing that a probe was necessary to enable the truth to “see the light of day.”
Notwithstanding, Gallant expressed his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security, saying, “the security of the state of Israel always was, and will always remain my life’s mission.”
Peoplesmind
