Benny Gantz Resigns From Netanyahu’s Gov’t, Calls for New Elections
Centrist War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz has resigned from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s emergency government, calling for new elections in Israel. Gantz’s resignation on Sunday came with strong criticism of Netanyahu’s handling of the ongoing conflict and his prioritization of political interests over a cease-fire deal that could secure the release of around 100 hostages held in Gaza.
In a televised address, Gantz accused Netanyahu of obstructing strategic decisions due to political considerations. “Unfortunately, Netanyahu is preventing us from advancing toward the real victory,” he stated. Gantz also emphasized the growing public discontent with the current government, urging for elections to be held in the fall and calling on Netanyahu to agree on a date. “Don’t let our people be torn apart,” he implored.
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Netanyahu responded by stressing the critical nature of Israel’s current situation, stating, “Israel is in an existential war on several fronts. Benny, this is not the time to abandon the campaign.”
Gantz’s departure leaves Netanyahu’s coalition dominated by extremist ministers such as Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who support reoccupying the Gaza Strip and expanding Israeli settlements. This shift in the coalition follows a May ultimatum from Gantz, demanding a clear post-conflict strategy for Gaza and a hostage-and-cease-fire agreement, which Netanyahu did not meet.
