Business leaders are warning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the country will be weakened in the eyes of its enemies if he fires Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. There are reports that Netanyahu is considering replacing Gallant with Gideon Saar, a member of the opposition. Saar has been critical of making a deal with Hamas, while Gallant has called for a truce and criticized Netanyahu’s aim of “total victory” in Gaza.
The Business Forum, consisting of 200 heads of Israel’s largest companies, has urged Netanyahu to keep Gallant in his position, stating that firing him would create more division and weaken the country during a time of war. The forum emphasized that Israel’s economic indicators show a deterioration into a deep recession, and firing the defense minister would shock the country further.
Netanyahu has denied negotiations with Saar but has not addressed plans regarding Gallant. Rumors of replacing Gallant have been circulating, with Netanyahu previously firing him in 2023, triggering mass protests. The potential firing comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, with reports of airstrikes killing civilians, and the US Secretary of State traveling to Cairo to discuss a ceasefire deal.
In the midst of escalating tensions and violence, the focus on internal political maneuvering could further destabilize Israel and weaken its position against its enemies. The calls from business leaders to retain Gallant highlight concerns about the impact of political decisions on the country’s security and stability during a time of conflict.
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