Benny Gantz Withdraws Knesset Candidacy, Calls for Unity Government

Benny Gantz, chairman of the National Unity party and former IDF Chief of Staff and Defense Minister, announced on Tuesday evening that he is withdrawing his candidacy for the 26th Knesset. Speaking at a press conference at the Maccabiah Village, Gantz stated, "With a heavy heart and out of responsibility, I have decided tonight to withdraw my candidacy for the 26th Knesset." He expressed continued belief in his political path but acknowledged his failure to garner sufficient public support. "Unfortunately, at this time, I have not succeeded in convincing enough of the people of our way, and the responsibility is mine," he said.

Gantz reiterated his view that the establishment of a Zionist, cross-bloc unity government is the correct solution to Israel's challenges. "The need for a Zionist, cross-bloc unity government is greater than any person or party," he stated. He appealed to party leaders across the political spectrum to set aside their differences, urging them, "Do not return us to October 6th, be brave enough to bring about real change. Put the old conceptions aside and do not succumb to the old factionalism."

Gantz warned that without political reform, Israel risks further crises. "If this does not happen, the people will continue to be torn apart, and we will reach repeat elections or, heaven forbid, a disaster." He defended his decision to join the emergency government after the October 7th massacre, stating he knew it might carry a heavy political price but has no regrets. "There is no one more whole than me about the most important choice of my public life. And if, heaven forbid, I am required to do such a thing in the future, I will do it again without hesitation."

Concluding his remarks, Gantz thanked his family, party members, and supporters, pledging to continue working to bridge divides within Israeli society from outside the Knesset. "I have always been and will always be a soldier of Israel, above all else," he affirmed.