Netanyahu Dismisses Gallant and Military Leaders in a Bid to Block Investigation and Continue the War /  Clashes Erupt Between Police and Protesters in Haifa and Jerusalem Amid Calls for Civil Disobedience

 November 06, 2024

The political editor wrote

Amid intensifying election rivalry, Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump, along with Democratic candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris, have both sought to foster public trust in the integrity of the electoral process albeit reserving comments for now. Both candidates committed to accepting the results if they appear credible, win or lose, in response to security agencies’ requests for each to reassure their supporters and the public. Washington’s security forces are on high alert, with thousands of officers deployed at sensitive locations to preempt potential clashes over election results, especially in cases where the losing side might contest results in states governed by the opposing party. With many polls indicating uncertain outcomes, especially in key swing states, projected margins are within 1%, intensifying concerns over prolonged uncertainty.

In the occupying entity, a crisis is spilling into the streets following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, which appeared to provoke public outcry reminiscent of previous mass protests. The public had rallied behind Gallant two years ago when Netanyahu introduced judicial changes favouring far-right religious and nationalist allies. This dismissal centres on recent tensions over the draft exemption for ultra-Orthodox citizens, as well as an ongoing investigation into classified leaks from Netanyahu’s office that could implicate him personally. Fearing Gallant might hand over court-requested documents related to the investigation, Netanyahu seems set on removing military and intelligence leaders who are backing the inquiry.

Meanwhile, Gallant’s initiative to draft thousands of ultra-Orthodox individuals is seen as a threat to Netanyahu’s coalition. Media outlets report Netanyahu’s plans to replace military and intelligence heads over disagreements on issues such as ceasefire negotiations, exchange deals to end the Gaza war, the ultra-Orthodox draft, and, crucially, ongoing conflict assessments. Despite military warnings of escalating risk, Netanyahu insists on continuing the war, raising alarms about a potential catastrophe, particularly on the Lebanese front.

Clashes between protesters and police have broken out in Haifa, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv, evoking memories of the massive anti-Netanyahu demonstrations. Calls from opposition groups are urging the public to expand protests, with discussions around civil disobedience and a general strike until the government is toppled.