Gantz's Exit Could Benefit Hendel, Not Eisenkot
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Benny Gantz has withdrawn from the upcoming elections, a move that could significantly benefit Yoaz Hendel and Yaron Zelekha, who are positioning themselves as a centrist alternative. Gantz had persisted in running, believing in his potential support, but ultimately decided against crossing the threshold. Hendel, who was previously rejected by Gadi Eisenkot, has formed a strong partnership with Zelekha and is now seen as a potential kingmaker. Ofer Winter might also gain some of Gantz's former voters, but faces his own electoral challenges. The future of the Blue and White list remains unclear.
The story in 7 lines · by baba
- Benny Gantz withdrew from the upcoming elections, potentially benefiting Yoaz Hendel and Yaron Zelekha.
- Gantz believed he had significant support but feared crossing the electoral threshold.
- Yoaz Hendel and Yaron Zelekha have formed a strong political partnership.
- Hendel and Zelekha are seen as the main option for voters seeking a centrist party.
- Gadi Eisenkot may not benefit as much as expected from Gantz's departure.
- Ofer Winter might gain some right-wing voters but faces his own electoral struggles.
- The future of the Blue and White list remains uncertain after Gantz's withdrawal.
Benny Gantz announced his withdrawal from the upcoming elections, a move that could unexpectedly benefit Yoaz Hendel, who Gantz initially refused to include in his list. Gantz had persisted in running despite polls showing him below the electoral threshold, believing he had a base of support and could garner over five seats. He was convinced that if he could convince voters he would pass the threshold, they would vote for him, a belief not entirely unfounded given his positive public image as a moderate, responsible statesman.
However, Gantz ultimately realized the fear of crossing the threshold was stronger than the potential demand for a centrist party. His withdrawal aims to prevent him from being responsible for wasted votes in a close election. Meanwhile, Yoaz Hendel, who recently faced political uncertainty after a partnership with Hili Tropper dissolved and Gadi Eisenkot rejected him, found a surprising ally in Professor Yaron Zelekha. Their initial technical alliance has evolved into a genuine political partnership, with shared messages and a more cohesive public identity.
Hendel and Zelekha are now positioning themselves as the primary option for voters seeking a party not automatically aligned with either major bloc. The article estimates that about 60% of Gantz's potential voters might shift to Hendel and Zelekha, based on similar target audiences and their shared goal of offering a solution to Israel's political issues. This strengthens Hendel's position, potentially making him a kingmaker in coalition negotiations, as he is not automatically aligned with Eisenkot.
Ofer Winter may also benefit from Gantz's departure, attracting right-wing voters who oppose Benjamin Netanyahu but don't feel at home in the current Likud party. However, Winter's own campaign is facing challenges, with recent polls showing him failing to cross the electoral threshold. The article also raises the question of the future of the entire Blue and White list, as Gantz's withdrawal does not automatically mean the list is out of the race, leaving the fate of other candidates uncertain.
Gantz concludes his electoral run with personal respect from many, despite political missteps. While his future political path is unclear, with speculation about a presidential run in 2028, he may not be exiting public life entirely. The article suggests that Hendel's rejection by Eisenkot might have been the best thing for his campaign.
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