He succeeds Yoav Gallant, who was fired by Benjamin Netanyahu with whom he had relations during the war in Gaza. The current head of diplomacy, Israel Katz, was appointed Minister of Defense on Tuesday, November 5, the Prime Minister of Israel announced. He will be replaced by Gideon Saar as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
A few minutes after the announcement, the newly appointed Israeli Defense Minister said he wanted to defeat “the enemy” and achieve the “objectives of the war” against the Palestinian Hamas and the Lebanese Hezbollah.
“We will work together to guide the Ministry of Defense to victory against the enemy and to achieve the objectives of the war: the return of the hostages (…), the destruction of Hamas, the defeat of Hezbollah, the containment of the Iranian attack. and the safe return of the inhabitants of the north and south (of Israel) to their homes”, Israel Katz wrote on X.
A Netanyahu loyalist
A member of the Knesset for over 25 years, Israel Katz was the first Minister of Agriculture under Ariel Sharon before joining Benjamin Netanyahu‘s close guard as Minister of Transport, Minister of Information, Minister of Finance and Minister of Energy.
Last January, he became foreign minister for the second time in the sixth Netanyahu government, after Eli Cohen. According to Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel Katz “brings the responsibility and calm problem-solving qualities necessary to lead this campaign.”
Israel Katz, loyal to Benjamin Netanyahu, was very much against the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, declaring him “persona non grata in Israel”. He criticized him in particular for not condemning Iran’s attack on Israel at the beginning of October.
“Anyone who cannot unilaterally condemn Iran’s horrific attack on Israel does not deserve to set foot on Israeli soil. We are dealing with an anti-Israel secretary general who supports terrorists, rapists and murderers,” Israel Katz said in a statement at the time.
“In the midst of war, trust is needed more than ever between the Prime Minister and his Minister of Defense” but “in recent months, this trust has been eroded,” Benjamin Netanyahu said in a letter sent to Yoav Gallant, adding ” was chosen to appoint Minister Israel Katz instead”. The current head of diplomacy, Israel Katz, has demonstrated his capabilities and contributions to national security,” the Israeli Prime Minister wrote to explain his choice.
Title: Navigating Change in Israeli Leadership: An Interview with Political Expert Dr. Sarah Cohen
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Cohen. Thank you for joining us today. The recent shift in Israeli defense leadership has certainly made headlines, especially with Israel Katz stepping up as Minister of Defense. What are your initial thoughts on this appointment?
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Good afternoon! Yes, the appointment of Israel Katz is quite significant. His history in the Knesset and as a long-time ally of Benjamin Netanyahu positions him as a central figure during this tumultuous time. His task isn’t easy, considering the ongoing conflict and the pressing issues surrounding Hamas and Hezbollah.
Time.news Editor: Indeed, Katz has expressed a clear determination to “defeat the enemy” and detail specific objectives, including the return of hostages and the destruction of Hamas. How do you think this rhetoric will influence Israel’s military strategy?
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Katz’s assertive language reflects a strong military stance, which resonates with many Israelis seeking security amidst ongoing threats. He emphasizes a direct approach to the conflict, suggesting that his strategies will likely be aggressive. However, rhetoric is one thing, and execution is another. The success of these objectives will depend heavily on various factors, including international support and the ability to navigate complex regional dynamics.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned international support, and that’s an interesting point. How do you foresee global reactions, particularly from Western allies, to Israel’s current military objectives under Katz’s leadership?
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Western nations, particularly those in the U.S. and EU, will watch closely. They generally support Israel’s right to defend itself but might push back against actions that could escalate violence or harm civilians. Katz will need to balance a robust defense strategy with diplomatic considerations to maintain that vital international support.
Time.news Editor: Katz’s appointment follows the firing of Yoav Gallant. How significant do you find this change in leadership at a time of conflict?
Dr. Sarah Cohen: It’s very significant. Katz’s promotion indicates a desire for a more cohesive and perhaps uncompromising defense approach, reflecting Netanyahu’s increasingly hardline strategy. This shift might unify the government’s stance but can also lead to greater tensions with Palestinian factions and neighboring countries. Transitioning leadership during conflict can be both a challenge and an opportunity for new tactics and policies.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned potential strains with Palestinian factions. With the recent upheaval and Katz’s goals, how do you foresee the situation evolving for the Palestinian people?
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Unfortunately, greater military aggression can often lead to escalated violence and humanitarian concerns for Palestinians. Katz’s focus on the objectives against Hamas suggests a prioritization of military goals that could exacerbate the already precarious conditions in the region. There’s a risk of further civilian suffering, which may evoke backlash both internally and externally.
Time.news Editor: It seems the challenges are multifaceted. what should we be watching for in the coming weeks regarding Israel’s actions and international responses?
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Keep an eye on statements from Katz and Netanyahu, particularly regarding any military operations. The reactions from international bodies like the UN and foreign governments will be telling, as will the responses from Hamas and Hezbollah. Moreover, public sentiment within Israel itself, as the population responds to military developments and their implications, will also play a crucial role in shaping future policy directions.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Cohen, for your insights. It’s clear that the path ahead is complex, and we appreciate your expertise in helping us navigate through it.
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Thank you for having me! It’s a critical time, and I hope for peace and resolution for all involved.