Michael Biton Departs Benny Gantz's National Unity Party

Member of Knesset Michael Biton announced Monday evening his departure from Benny Gantz's National Unity Party, a move that leaves only two other MKs alongside Gantz in the faction. Biton, who has been a political ally of Gantz since the inception of the party, is considering establishing a new social-focused party.

Biton previously served as Minister of Social Equality, Minister of Strategic Affairs, and a minister in the Defense Ministry. Before entering national politics, he was the head of the local council in Yeruham. He stated on social media that he would make a decision about his future political path within "a few hours," and that he and Gantz are parting as "friends and partners."

Biton indicated that he is exploring the possibility of forming a "social, state, traditional party based on the values of Zionism, Judaism, and democracy." He expressed pride in the work done together over the past seven years, including legislation and issues he handled as a minister and committee chairman.

Gantz confirmed he had spoken with Biton, and they agreed Biton would not be part of the party's list for the upcoming elections. Gantz described Biton as a "guide for correcting injustices in Israeli society" even before they entered politics together. He added that while it was clear to both that their "joint political journey" would not continue, they "will continue to share the way."

This departure follows a trend of MKs leaving the party. On Sunday, former minister Chili Tropper, also a close Gantz associate, announced he would join Gadi Eisenkot's "Yisrael" party, securing the sixth spot on their electoral list.