Gantz Vows to Continue Election Race Despite Low Polls

Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity party, declared Saturday evening that he will not withdraw from the Knesset election race, despite criticism and claims that his party might waste votes. In a special statement, Gantz asserted he would run until the end, emphasizing that his party does not belong to any political bloc. He stated that politicians from both blocs oppose a unity government because the societal rift serves them politically, leading Israel toward further elections and narrow governments that will tear the country apart and invite attacks from enemies.

Gantz explained his decision to continue was driven by a commitment to national unity. "I decided not to surrender to our enemies. To fight our enemies, I must fight for our unity, and therefore I am running until the end," he said. He dismissed claims that voting for National Unity would result in wasted votes, stating, "Anyone who claims I am burning votes is lying and afraid. Whoever votes for me votes for unity, not for blocs."

Gantz claimed that at least six Knesset seats worth of voters wish to support his party, directly addressing them: "You are not alone. Vote, and we will save the country." Concurrently, National Unity announced a broad campaign under the slogan "Voting for Unity, Saving the Country," set to launch immediately and run until election day. The campaign will feature advertising on buses, billboards, digital platforms, and social media, aiming to position National Unity as the sole party committed to forming a unity government.

Recent polls by Channel 14 have consistently shown National Unity failing to pass the electoral threshold, with its latest poll indicating 1.3% of the vote.