WASHINGTON — Israel’s opposition leader, Yair Lapid, cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday against firing his defense minister, who is rumored to be on the chopping block for challenging Netanyahu's handling of the war in the Gaza Strip. 

Lapid spoke to reporters in Washington after meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss prospects for a deal that would halt the fighting in exchange for a phased release of the hostages held by Hamas. Lapid, who is among Netanyahu's most vocal critics, said the Israeli government "should do more" to secure a deal that would bring home the remaining captives. 

His visit comes after Israeli national broadcaster Kan reported earlier Monday that Netanyahu is considering firing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and replacing him with Gideon Saar, the leader of the New Hope party who is currently a member of the opposition. Gallant warned Netanyahu’s hard-line position on the Gaza cease-fire talks could come at the cost of freeing the remaining hostages.  

Netanyahu sacked Gallant in March 2023 after he publicly criticized the premier’s controversial plan to overhaul Israel’s judicial system. Gallant’s firing prompted massive street protests, and he was reinstated shortly after.