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Ongoing Story· Day 26

Gantz Faces Pressure to Withdraw from Election Race

8 developments

Behadrei HaredimPolitics

Gantz Rejects Offers Amidst Political Maneuvering

Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba

ReligiousNeutral tone

Hebrew · 4 newsrooms covering

Originalשר, שגריר ואפילו ראש המל"ל: הקרב על בני גנץ מתחמם

The story in 5 lines · by baba

  • Benny Gantz rejected offers from Likud, including a ministerial role.
  • Other factions are also trying to recruit Gantz to prevent vote loss.
  • Gantz plans to run independently despite poll numbers.
  • His campaign will focus on securing voter pledges.
  • Gantz is not interested in jobs or reserved political spots.
Gantz Rejects Offers Amidst Political Maneuvering
Editorial illustration generated by baba News — not a photograph of the event.

Benny Gantz, chairman of the Blue and White party, is reportedly being courted by both the left and the right of the political spectrum. On the left, parties are concerned about Gantz potentially "burning votes" if he runs independently, while the right seeks his participation to improve its image. Despite survey results, Gantz remains determined to run his own campaign.

According to a report by Kan News, the Likud party has offered Gantz a ministerial position in the current government as part of efforts to persuade him to join forces. This offer, made by three different sources, was intended to demonstrate seriousness and bolster the campaign for a "national unity government." One theoretical possibility discussed was the role of Defense Minister. However, Gantz has rejected these proposals. The Likud stated in response that Benny Gantz did not receive an offer for a reserved spot. Blue and White issued a statement asserting that no offer is relevant except for the establishment of a Zionist, cross-bloc government to address the real problems of Israeli citizens, adding that Gantz is not interested in jobs, honors, or reserved spots.

Simultaneously, the Gush Izunko coalition is also attempting to prevent vote wastage for Blue and White by presenting various proposals to Gantz. According to a report by i24, potential roles being considered include ambassadorships and domestic positions, with the role of National Security Advisor being one of the suggestions. Aides to Gantz criticized these offers, stating, "One who has no government cannot make offers."

Despite pressure and offers from both sides, Gantz currently has no intention of withdrawing his candidacy. His associates are planning a campaign targeting potential supporters, aiming to secure pledges of votes and build momentum for his party. They believe there are voters who wish to support Gantz but are hesitant due to the perception, based on polls, that he has no chance of success. The current objective is to alter this trend.

Behadrei HaredimHaredi · Jerusalem

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