Gantz Accuses Bennett, Lieberman of Plot to Oust Eisenkot

Two weeks before elections, Benny Gantz, chairman of the Blue and White party, warned that Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Lieberman might demand the premiership even if their parties are not the largest in the opposition bloc. Gantz suggested this could lead to a political crisis and the formation of a government supported by Arab parties. Speaking at a conference, Gantz stated that Bennett and Lieberman would not settle for electoral results that do not place them at the head of the government. "Why would they pay the penalty for going with Arab parties if they are not prime minister? Of course, they will demand it," he said, adding in English, "Read my lips, you will see it happen."

Gantz further described the alleged move as "Lieberman's plot to oust Gadi Eisenkot and form a narrow government with Ahmed Tibi." He recalled contacts for forming a government with the support of the Joint List in 2020, where he claimed Lieberman was a key proponent but avoided public association. Bennett categorically denied any ongoing contacts or coordination with Lieberman regarding the premiership. Lieberman responded to Gantz's remarks with a jab, stating, "You don't judge a person in distress." Blue and White retorted that they "do judge a person determined to reach the chair even at the cost of selling the country."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amplified Gantz's claims, incorporating them into the Likud campaign. Netanyahu wrote that Gantz "reveals the truth: Lieberman wanted to form a government in 2020 with Balad from the Joint List, at any price. He wanted it then. He wants it today. And he will do it again." He asserted that "Lieberman and Eisenkot will form a left-wing government with the Arab parties," and only a vote for Likud could stop it.

Lieberman rejected the accusations, redirecting criticism towards Gantz and Netanyahu. "I am acting to save the country, Gantz is acting to save Bibi," he wrote, questioning what Gantz expects in return for joining "Bibi's campaign of lies." The dispute highlights divisions within the anti-Netanyahu camp regarding the composition and leadership of the next government. Gantz warns of a government reliant on Arab parties, while Netanyahu seeks to leverage this fear for Likud. Lieberman, meanwhile, frames the attack as a political maneuver to aid Netanyahu, rather than a move to ensure the next government's stability.