Israel’s new Defense Minister, Israel Katz, was sworn in following the shock dismissal of his predecessor, Yoav Gallant, by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting ongoing tensions over military strategy in the Gaza conflict. Gallant’s ousting came after clashes with Netanyahu regarding the response to Hamas attacks. Katz, who previously served as foreign minister, expressed a commitment to defeating Israel’s enemies, though his tenure began amidst diplomatic strains with France triggered by a controversial incident in Jerusalem. The dismissal has prompted widespread political criticism and street protests as debates over military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews intensify.