Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently met with Gideon Saar, head of the New Hope party, to discuss a potential political settlement that could lead to significant changes in the leadership of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). According to reports from the Times of Israel, this agreement may involve jointly selecting a new IDF Chief of Staff.
Under the proposed arrangement, if Netanyahu decides to end the tenure of current Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Saar is likely to be appointed as Gallant’s successor. This move would also potentially lead to a shift in the top military leadership. Sources from Haaretz and Ynet suggest that Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the current IDF Chief of Staff, might be replaced as part of this deal. However, it remains unclear whether Halevi will be removed from his position or will resign voluntarily.
The negotiations between Netanyahu and Saar reflect ongoing efforts to address key political and military leadership issues in Israel, amidst broader political maneuvering within the country’s government.