Yoav Gallant is a veteran Israeli politician, currently part of the Likud Party, and is Israel's current defense minister.
He has an extensive background in the IDF and was at one point a top candidate to become chief of staff.
Netanyahu clashes with Gallant, Gantz over Gaza plans, Haredi draft • US moves forward with Gaza pier
Blinken says Israel must not reoccupy Gaza, Day After plan needed
The coming days and weeks will likely include a lot of political drama, while in the background, IDF soldiers continue to fight in Gaza, and 100,000 Israelis remain away from their homes.
Gallant's comments immediately set off a storm of responses from senior ministers, and Netanyahu himself was quick to respond with a video statement.
Gallant said the IDF is acting in Rafah to finish off Hamas's battalions, find the hostages, and kill Hamas leadership. But as long as Hamas tries to come back, he warned the IDF may need to return.
The defense minister asked that the weapon be designed to fight effectively against terrorist organizations according to combat scenarios in ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip.
IDF pushes forward in Jabalya • Ex-Mossad chief slams Biden • Blinken tells Gallant US doesn't support Rafah op.
The IDF said that 100,000-150,000 Palestinian civilians would need to be evacuated from Jabalia for a large renewed operation there.
Prime Minister Netanyahu and security chiefs reportedly argued over discussions held about the course of the war, including questions of the day after in Gaza.
Smotrich blocked the purchase of more jet fighters from Lockheed-Martin and Boeing, citing concerns this was not the wisest way to improve defense capabilities.
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