Yoaz Hendel Urges Benny Gantz to Quit Knesset Race

With the election for the 26th Knesset in its final stretch, Yoaz Hendel, chairman of the Reservists and Economics party, has publicly called on Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity party, to withdraw from the political race. Hendel's appeal comes after a poll showed his party potentially surpassing the electoral threshold, while Gantz's party polled around one percent.

In a social media post, Hendel presented surveys predicting his unified list, which includes Prof. Yaron Zelekha and Dr. Einat Wilf, could secure four Knesset seats. He contrasted this with Gantz's polling numbers, which hover near one percent. "I call on Benny Gantz to do the right thing and withdraw," Hendel wrote. "It harms the effort to create an alternative that will bring a Zionist government."

Hendel acknowledged Gantz as a worthy individual with significant contributions to the country, despite ideological differences. "No one will take away his sacrifices over the years, and I am convinced he will quickly return to the public sphere, but now is the time to recognize reality and be brave," Hendel stated.

Hendel emphasized the importance of preventing vote wastage, adding, "There is no point in holding a mandate that could go to the Reservists party, the only party passing the electoral threshold. Let us take on this mission quietly, grow to ensure a stable Zionist government for the sake of the country and the people we both love so much."

Hendel concluded by promising voters that his party would take responsibility, shake up the system regarding reservists' service and the cost of living, and establish a Zionist government to save Israel.