Netanyahu Criticized as Gantz Exits Election Race

By מערכת ice

Translated & summarized from Ice by baba

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Journalist Barak Sari criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political maneuvering following Benny Gantz's withdrawal from the upcoming Knesset elections. Sari argued that Netanyahu, despite being called a "magician," has failed to unite the right-wing bloc, while Gadi Eisenkot has succeeded in organizing his party. Gantz announced his departure from the race due to poor poll numbers, vowing to continue working for unity. Other political figures, including Rani Rahav, Gadi Eisenkot, Yair Golan, and Efrat Reiten, also commented on Gantz's decision.

The story in 5 lines · by baba

Journalist Barak Sari criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's failure to unite the right-wing bloc before the elections.
Benny Gantz withdrew from the Knesset election race due to low poll numbers.
Gadi Eisenkot was praised for successfully organizing his political bloc.
Rani Rahav saluted Benny Gantz, expressing confidence in his future public service.
Yair Golan and Efrat Reiten called Gantz's decision responsible and urged unity among change-oriented parties.

Netanyahu Criticized as Gantz Exits Election Race — Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Eight days before the 26th Knesset elections, the withdrawal of Blue and White Chairman Benny Gantz from the race has sparked political reactions. Journalist and 103FM broadcaster Barak Sari criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, comparing the right-wing bloc's organization to that of Yishar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot.

Sari posted on X, "They say he's a political genius, a magician. Forget the nonsense, magicians only exist in fairy tales." He elaborated, "Look how many parties are running in his bloc and are about to burn hundreds of thousands of votes. Winter, Leitner, Noam party, AHI party, Black Color, and a few other colors." Sari concluded, "So at least at this stage, the magician Netanyahu has failed in organizing the bloc, and the political rookie Eisenkot has succeeded in organizing his bloc perfectly."

Gantz announced his withdrawal after polls consistently placed Blue and White below the electoral threshold. He stated, "I will not run in the upcoming elections, I will continue to fight for unity," adding his intention to remain active in public life.

Publicist Rani Rahav responded to Gantz's decision, tweeting, "Benny Gantz, I salute you! Well done! I am sure we will still enjoy you in a senior state role." Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yishar party, also commented, "I thank my friend, Lt. Gen. (res.) Benny Gantz, for his correct and responsible decision to withdraw from the crucial elections since the establishment of the state. I thank him for his long-standing contribution to Israel's security and am sure he will continue to contribute to Israeli society going forward."

Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats party, called Gantz's decision "responsible and correct," emphasizing the need for the "change bloc" to win and for a "Jewish, democratic, liberal, strong, and secure Israel." MK Efrat Reiten, faction chairwoman of the Democrats, thanked Gantz for his service and for making the right decision, advocating for unity among parties committed to change and good governance, distinct from coalitions she described as "failure and Kahanism."