Netanyahu said reluctant to name Dichter as defense minister, looking for solution

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reluctant to name Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter as defense minister after he fired Yoav Gallant from the post and is looking for another solution, Channel 12 reports.

Dichter, a former Shin Bet chief, was seen as the favorite to be appointed in place of Gallant, having the most security experience among current Likud MKs.

But the report says Netanyahu is concerned that Dichter would not be on board with his plans for an Iran strike and was looking for alternatives.

Dichter also seemed to rule himself out of the running earlier in the day with a statement calling to find a way to reinstate Gallant.

Netanyahu fired Gallant after he called for a halt to the judicial overhaul legislative process. However, Netanyahu has not yet handed him his letter of dismissal, leaving Gallant in limbo.

The report says Netanyahu and Gallant’s offices were looking for ways to reconcile the two and possibly compromise to leave Gallant in place if he makes an apology. Netanyahu has since ordered a pause to the legislation to allow for dialogue.

One suggestion included having Gallant remain as defense minister but resign as a Likud MK in the Knesset.

Netanyahu was also meeting with other prospects for the job, including Economy Minister Nir Barkat.