The U.S. Department of Defense (the Pentagon) stated that Yoav Gallant, who was dismissed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from his position as Minister of Defense today, was a "trusted partner," and that it will continue to work closely with the next Israeli Minister of Defense.

Pentagon spokesman Major General Patrick Ryder said in a statement: "America's commitment to Israel's security remains strong, and the U.S. Department of Defense will continue to work closely with the next Israeli Minister of Defense."

Earlier today, Axios reported that a White House official said the U.S. administration was very surprised by the dismissal decision.

For its part, U.S. National Public Radio reported that an Israeli official said Netanyahu dismissed Gallant on election day to prevent the Biden administration from protesting.