Yoav Gallant
- Known for
- Minister of Defense, IDF officer
- Born in
- Jaffa, Israel
- Education
- BA, University of Haifa
Yoav Gallant is a former IDF Major General who rose through politics to serve as Israel's Minister of Defense (2022–2024). His career is defined by a deeply entrenched military background and controversial political stances, culminating in his dismissal by Netanyahu. Gallant's tenure was dominated by the Gaza War and escalating regional tensions.
Signature Positions
Gallant's time as Defense Minister saw hardline approaches to regional conflicts and internal political clashes:
- Gaza War: Ordered a complete siege on the Gaza Strip following the October 7 attacks, stating, "We are fighting human animals and we are acting accordingly."
- Hezbollah/Lebanon: Warned that Beirut could meet the same fate as Gaza if attacked, and later sought support for escalating military action against Hezbollah.
- Judicial Reform: Broke with his coalition to oppose the government's proposed judicial reforms, leading to his temporary dismissal by Netanyahu.
- Hannibal Directive: Admitted to issuing the controversial Hannibal Directive in certain areas during the October 7 attacks, prioritizing stopping attacks over hostage safety.
Notable Tensions
Gallant's career is marked by significant political and legal controversies:
- ICC Warrants: Received an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for alleged war crimes, including "use of starvation as a weapon of war" during the Gaza conflict.
- IDF Chief Candidacy: His 2011 appointment as IDF Chief of Staff was canceled due to allegations of building an unauthorized access road and planting an olive grove on public land.
- Political Dismissal: He was fired by PM Netanyahu in late 2024, an action that sparked massive protests, allegedly due to disagreements over the hostage deal and inquiries into the October 7 attacks.
Gallant began his political career moving from the Kulanu party to Likud, holding key ministerial posts including Construction and Education before becoming Defense Minister. His hardline military leadership style is evident in his operational decisions, even as he has publicly clashed with Netanyahu over governing strategy.