Yoav Gallant served as Israel's Minister of Defense between 2022 and 2024, overseeing major military operations during his tenure. Before transitioning into national politics, he held the rank of aluf within the Israel Defense Forces, where he commanded the Southern Command and played a central role in operations within the Gaza Strip.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1958 in Jaffa, Gallant is the son of Fruma, a Holocaust survivor, and Michael, a participant in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War. He attended David Kalai High School in Givatayim and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business and finance management from the University of Haifa.
Military Career
Gallant began his military service in 1977 as a naval commando in Shayetet 13. During his decades-long career, he commanded the Gaza Division and the reserve 340th Armored Division. In 2002, he attained the rank of major general while serving as military secretary to the prime minister. As head of the Southern Command from 2005 to 2010, he directed Operation Cast Lead in Gaza.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Chief of Staff Candidacy
In 2010, Defense Minister Ehud Barak nominated Gallant for the position of Chief of General Staff. Although the government initially approved the appointment, it was subsequently canceled in 2011 following an investigation by the Attorney General into allegations regarding the unauthorized use of public land at his residence in Moshav Amikam.
Political Tenure
Gallant entered politics in 2015 by joining the Kulanu party and winning a seat in the Knesset. He served as Minister of Construction before moving to the Likud party. Between 2015 and 2025, he held various parliamentary and ministerial roles, including Minister of Education and Minister of Defense. On 5 November 2024, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Gallant's dismissal, which became effective on 7 November. Gallant resigned from the Knesset in January 2025.
International Legal Status
On 21 November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity purportedly committed during the Gaza war.
Fast facts
- Born: 1958, Jaffa
- Military rank: aluf (major general)
- Education: University of Haifa
- Party affiliation: Kulanu, Likud
- Minister of Defense: 2022–2024
- Resignation from Knesset: 5 January 2025
Questions readers ask
Why was Gallant's appointment as IDF Chief of Staff canceled?
The appointment was canceled in 2011 after legal concerns emerged regarding his development of private property on public land.
What is the status of the arrest warrant against Gallant?
The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Gallant on 21 November 2024 for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Achievements
- Minister of Construction (2015–2019)
- Knesset member (2015–2019)
- Knesset member (2019–2019)
- Knesset member (2019–2020)
- Educated at University of Haifa
