Gantz Faces Existential Threat to Knesset Run Amid Political Maneuvering

Benny Gantz, chairman of the Blue and White party, is currently fighting not for election mandates but for the very right to run in the upcoming elections, a situation described as anti-democratic. This comes three years after Gantz joined a unity government shortly after the outbreak of war, a decision now mocked by some, though opposition parties, excluding Arab factions, had voted in favor. Gadi Eisenkot, who was Gantz's partner at the time and entered the government with him, is now criticized for his stance.

Gantz's political trajectory has been challenging. He is seen as having made two significant errors: first, substantively, and second, politically, by leaving the emergency government. Those who wanted him out abandoned him before his departure, while others were disappointed by his exit during the ongoing war. Despite sympathy from a "third bloc" for Gantz and a desire to see him in the next government, a lack of faith in his ability to pass the electoral threshold persists.

Historically, Gantz saw a surge in polls when he pursued agreements and sought to de-escalate tensions during the judicial reform crisis, and again when he joined the emergency government. In contrast, Yair Lapid's focus on political demands like removing ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir is contrasted with Gantz's decision to "get under the stretcher."

The article also touches on the failed "third bloc" initiative, intended to unite proponents of a unity government, which reportedly collapsed due to egos. Gantz's decision to continue with the unity government line was made after in-depth research indicated continued public support for such a government and sympathy for Gantz himself, though the fear of wasting a vote remains a significant obstacle.

Gantz's campaign plans include emphasizing the current political deadlock and appealing to his sympathizers, assuring them they are not alone. The author notes that the constant focus on polls influences public voting patterns. Gantz recently rejected offers, including from Likud, to withdraw from politics, stating he has a mission and will "die for it" if necessary, emphasizing his commitment to a broad unity government.

His decision to run to the end was solidified during the recent ceremonies marking the Simchat Torah massacre. Gantz believes that without a party representing unity, the center-left bloc's attempt to form a government could lead to undesirable outcomes, potentially involving Arab parties or a rotation of leadership between figures like Bennett and Lieberman. He feels unfairly targeted compared to Eisenkot, who also joined the government, suggesting media outlets fear his alternative message and potential breakthrough.