Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday dismissed his popular, Yoav Gallant, in a surprise announcement that came as the country is embroiled in wars on multiple fronts across the region.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s dismissal of Yoav Gallant was seen as a risky step as Israel fights wars on two fronts. Opposition leaders said the move put national security at risk.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s shock firing of his defense chief on Tuesday night removed a cabinet critic, but ...