Replacing defense minister during war is an 'act of madness,' American diplomatic source says

"Replacing a defense minister during a war for political reasons is an act of madness," a senior American administration member told N12 on Monday, adding, "especially when it's a defense minister with military experience." 

Following reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu planned to dismiss Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, thousands gathered in front of Gideon Sa'ar's house to urge him to turn down the position.

N12's Daphna Liel posted on X/Twitter about the potential replacement.

In her post, she claimed that Sarah Netanyahu, in particular, opposed the idea.

"You don't replace one disloyal security minister with another one."

קשיים מאחורי הקלעים - סביבתו הקרובה של נתניהו, ובעיקר שרה נתניהו, מתנגדת להצבתו של סער במשרד הבטחון. הנימוק - לא מחליפים שר בטחון לא נאמן, בלא נאמן אחר.

— דפנה ליאל (@DaphnaLiel) September 16, 2024

The protest 

Hundreds of thousands have blocked Namir Road in Tel Aviv as family members of hostages begged Sa'ar not to accept the position of Defense Minister.

"Gideon, you opposed the deal that was meant to bring home Hersh, Alex, Almog, Eden, and my Carmel alive.” Shai Dikman, cousin of Carmel Gat z''l, whose body was returned earlier this month, said. “Canceling the hostage deal is what brought Carmel back in a coffin. I'm standing here in a situation no one wants to face. But in front of me are the daughters of Ohev Ben Ami – they could have a different ending. What separates us is a deal; a deal you're willing to forgo. So tell me, Gideon, do you want to be the Minister of Defense? What is defense if not bringing back civilians who were kidnapped from their homes safely? Isn't that security?"