Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has replaced his popular defense minister, Yoav Gallant, with Israel Katz, who was the foreign minister. The surprise move has sparked protests across Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed his popular defense minister, Yoav Gallant, in a surprise announcement that came as the country is embroiled in wars on multiple fronts across the region.

Mr Gallant, a popular minister and provocateur, was fired by prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to "significant gaps" and a “crisis of trust” that affected the war. Both men have repeatedly been at odds over the war in Gaza. Mr Gallant was replaced by Israel Katz – an incumbent foreign minister and a longtime loyalist of Mr Netanyahu.