BREAKING: PM Netanyahu Ousts National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Tzachi Hanegbi from his role as National Security Advisor (NSA) and head of the National Security Council (NSC). Netanyahu informed Hanegbi that he intends to appoint a new NSA, and Hanegbi's tenure is set to conclude today. The move comes amid reports of growing tension and disagreements between the two over key security decisions regarding the war in Gaza.

In a press statement following the dismissal, Hanegbi confirmed the end of his term and stated: "The terrible failure on October 7, in which I share responsibility, must be thoroughly investigated to ensure that the proper lessons are learned and to help restore the fractured trust."

Hanegbi's Farewell and Critical Assessment

Hanegbi's statement acknowledged the end of his term, saying, "Prime Minister Netanyahu updated me today on his intention to appoint a new NSA. In light of this, my term as National Security Advisor and Head of the National Security Council will end today. I will, of course, be available to my replacement as required."

He offered thanks to the Prime Minister, noting: "I thanked the Prime Minister for the privilege I had to be a partner in shaping Israel's foreign and security policy during challenging years, for the opportunity to express an independent position in sensitive discussions, and for the professional dialogue we maintained even during disagreements."

Hanegbi then offered a sober assessment of Israel's current strategic situation and the ongoing war: "The multi-front campaign forced upon us on October 7, 2023, is not over. Our fighters stand guard on many fronts, and the mission to bring back all our captives has not yet been completed."

He stressed that Israel still has a duty to ensure, "by diplomatic or military means," that terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip are removed from power and disarmed, and that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. Hanegbi also highlighted the demanding nature of the international and diplomatic challenges, which "require Israeli initiative and action with wisdom, determination, and responsibility."

Disagreements and Departure

The decision to replace Hanegbi follows several public and private disputes between the NSA and Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers during the war. Reports indicate that Hanegbi opposed Operation Gideon's Chariots B, supported the position of the security establishment regarding the recent hostage deal, and advocated against an attack on Qatar. The reported strain was also evident last month when Hanegbi did not join the Prime Minister's flight to the United States.

Hanegbi concluded his statement with a plea for national cohesion: "Most important: We must work to heal the wounds in Israeli society and strengthen the unity within us. The power of Israeli unity has been fully revealed on the battlefield over the last two years, shattering the illusions of our enemies. Restoring unity in all layers of public life is now a condition for ensuring the eternity of Israel."

The identity of Hanegbi's replacement has not yet been announced.