Gantz Withdraws Knesset Bid, Eyes Presidency
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity Party, announced his withdrawal from the Knesset election race, a decision reportedly made weeks prior. He is now reportedly aiming to run for President of Israel, a significant shift from his previous ambition to be Prime Minister. The move follows his party's consistent failure to cross the electoral threshold in polls and internal party pressures. Gantz had recently intensified his public criticism of former political allies.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Benny Gantz announced his withdrawal from the Knesset election race.
- Gantz reportedly made the decision weeks ago despite public denials.
- He is now reportedly aiming to run for President of Israel.
- His party, National Unity, consistently polled below the electoral threshold.
- Gantz recently intensified criticism of former political allies like Lieberman and Eisenkot.
Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity Party, announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Knesset elections on Monday. The decision, reportedly made weeks ago despite public denials, comes after his party consistently polled below the electoral threshold.
Sources indicate Gantz's next political move will be to contend for the role of President of Israel. This marks a significant shift for the former IDF Chief of Staff, who entered politics with aspirations of leading the country as Prime Minister.
The withdrawal follows months of declining support for the Blue and White party, coupled with a wave of resignations from its ranks. Gantz faced pressure from opposition allies who feared his party's votes would hinder the formation of a future government.
In the days leading up to his announcement, Gantz intensified his criticism of former political allies, including Avigdor Lieberman and Gadi Eisenkot, accusing them of plotting to form a government reliant on Arab parties, a scenario he deemed dangerous. These attacks were interpreted by some in the political arena as a move to exact political retribution, while others suggested a covert coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Gantz's associates vehemently denied these claims, stating his criticism stemmed from genuine concern for the nation's future.
Gantz's political career began in December 2018 with the founding of his party. He later formed the Blue and White alliance, served as Alternate Prime Minister and Defense Minister, led the National Unity Party, and joined the war cabinet after the October 7th attacks, departing in June 2024.
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