While many of those close to Netanyahu, such as the rabidly racist Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir, praised Gallant’s termination, many […] settlers objected to the action.

Several high-ranking Israeli officials used the X social media platform to blast Netanyahu’s decision. Israeli president and centrist-Zionist Isaac Herzog stated that Gallant’s termination was “the last thing Israel needs.” (The Guardian, Nov.5)

Protests broke out in Tel Aviv and occupied Jerusalem following the announcement of the former defense minister’s dismissal. Protesters took to the streets, many clashing with Israeli police, and several people committed civil disobedience. Al Jazeera footage from Nov. 6 shows protesters demonstrating outside of Netanyahu’s residence and storming gates near his home.

Unfortunately, the Israeli demonstrators were mostly one-sided, as they solely focused on releasing Israeli hostages. Their demands ignored the plight of Palestinian prisoners who have been unjustly incarcerated much longer and at a higher rate. Most of the protesters also waved Israeli flags, viewed by the Palestinian community as a symbol of terrorism and genocide.

The rallies against Netanyahu were nonetheless a blow to the Likud-led coalition government. They reflect the growing discontent being expressed by occupier residents of the settler-colonial state. More than 130 courageous IOF “reservists” signed off on a letter refusing to fight in Gaza and Lebanon. The October 9 letter reads: “For some of us, the red line has already been crossed, and for others, it is rapidly approaching: the day when, with broken hearts, we will stop reporting for service.” (CNN, Oct. 25).