Yoav Gallant: Stepping Down Amid Political Tensions

Former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has resigned from parliament after a history of clashes with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right government. Gallant, dismissed from his ministerial position in November, frequently opposed his coalition's policies, including military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men. His departure highlights ongoing political tensions.

In a move highlighting the ongoing political turbulence in Israel, Yoav Gallant, the former Defence Minister, announced his resignation from parliament on Wednesday. Known for his independent stance, Gallant often clashed with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right government allies.

Gallant, who had been dismissed from his ministerial role last November by Netanyahu, remained in his parliamentary seat until his recent resignation. The disagreements between Gallant and Netanyahu's coalition largely revolved around critical issues such as military exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jewish men.

The tensions further escalated when Netanyahu fired Gallant in March 2023 after the latter called for a halt to plans diminishing the Supreme Court's authority. Gallant's dismissal led to mass protests, prompting Netanyahu to reconsider. The political standoff continues as the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for both Gallant and Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in the Gaza conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)