MK Michael Biton Leaves Gantz's Party, Considers New Social Movement

Member of Knesset Michael Biton announced he is leaving Benny Gantz's National Unity Party, citing a deep crisis within the party. Biton is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Dani Miran, a leader of the "Pensioners Party," to form a new joint political entity. This new list, expected to focus on social issues and intergenerational connection, is tentatively named "Dor V'Dor" (Generation to Generation).

Biton stated he is "considering establishing a social party in the coming hours." This move occurs amidst significant internal turmoil for the National Unity Party, which has seen several departures and is polling near the electoral threshold. Biton, previously a more moderate voice within the party, had previously suggested that National Unity would not rule out joining a broad consensus government led by Benjamin Netanyahu, believing the public desired moderation over animosity.

Biton's departure follows a series of setbacks for the center bloc. Recent negotiations between Gantz and Gilad Erdan for a political union collapsed, with Erdan's party accusing National Unity of refusing to discuss substantive issues. Additionally, former Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked announced she would not run in the upcoming elections, concluding she could not pass the electoral threshold. The failure to form a broader union leaves smaller parties vulnerable to falling short of the required votes to enter the Knesset.