Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s shock firing of his defense chief on Tuesday night removed a cabinet critic, but it also deepened anger among opponents over his handling of the country’s multifront conflict.

But the fact he has been given his marching orders now suggests the prime minister is feeling strong. As has been the case for the past year, it is Israel’s longest-serving leader, its most Machiavellian and successful political operator, who is calling the shots.

"Firing Gallant in the middle of a war is an act of madness," opposition leader Yair Lapid said on X. "Netanyahu is selling Israel's security and the Israeli army soldiers for a disgraceful political survival." The grassroots forum representing hostage ...