Yoav Gallant

In May 2024, Gallant publicly called on Netanyahu to rule out lasting Israeli military governance of Gaza and define a Palestinian alternative to Hamas. The intervention exposed a major division at the highest level of government over the war's objectives.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Political responsibility

Gallant opposed a general exemption for ultra-Orthodox men and supported issuing thousands of conscription orders. This dispute added to his disagreements over Gaza and the hostages. In November 2024, Netanyahu dismissed him, citing a breakdown of trust.

Attribution

Political responsibility

On 21 November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Gallant, finding reasonable grounds to believe that he bore responsibility for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly concerning deprivation of supplies indispensable to the civilian population's survival.

Attribution

Command responsibility

In March 2023, Gallant called for judicial reform to be suspended, citing a threat to national security. Netanyahu announced his dismissal, triggering mass demonstrations; the dismissal was ultimately not carried out.

Attribution

Political responsibility

On 9 October 2023, Gallant announced a complete siege of Gaza, with electricity cut off and the entry of food and fuel blocked. The measure and his remarks were strongly criticised in light of civilian protection and humanitarian law, and subsequently featured in international debate over the conduct of the war.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Political responsibility

While serving as minister, Gallant requested permission to retain two World Cup tickets received from businessman Rami Ungar. The permits committee emphasised that it was generally inappropriate for ministers to accept benefits from wealthy individuals, but exceptionally authorised the tickets on condition that 10,000 shekels be donated to charity.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated

Petitioners asked the High Court to prevent Gallant's appointment as chief of staff, citing allegations relating to his command during Operation Cast Lead. The Court dismissed the petition and made no finding of personal criminal responsibility.

Attribution

Command responsibility

Gallant's appointment as chief of staff was cancelled following controversies over the use of public land, an unauthorised access road and statements or documents relating to his property. The Attorney General considered that the legal difficulties made it impossible to defend his appointment.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Personally implicated