Benny Gantz Rejects Bloc Majority, Calls for Broad Zionist Unity Government

Benny Gantz, leader of the Blue and White party, outlined his vision for post-election Israel in a Wednesday interview with 103FM. He firmly rejected granting a parliamentary majority to any political bloc, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's, emphasizing the need for a broad Zionist unity government. Gantz criticized the ongoing political conflicts, stating, "I'm tired of revenge governments," and urged an end to factional disputes.

Responding to speculation about joining Netanyahu, Gantz categorically denied any intention to do so, saying, "I am not going with Netanyahu. I do not give a bloc 61 seats, neither to Netanyahu nor to Gantz. I want them both to sit together and form a broad Zionist unity government." When asked about potential scenarios if such unity fails, he said he would act appropriately when the time comes and encouraged voters to support his party for a government that ends division and leads a proper national service framework.

Gantz also addressed the departure of MK Hili Tropper from Blue and White to the "Zionist Home - Reservists" party, expressing regret but openness to Tropper's possible return. He acknowledged other prominent exits from the party, including Yair Lapid, Gabi Ashkenazi, and Gideon Sa'ar, attributing such changes to normal political dynamics.

On the sensitive issue of settler violence in Judea and Samaria, Gantz stated he has communicated to senior Trump administration officials that the violence is perpetrated by a small extremist minority, not settlers in general. He condemned the violence and the stigmatization of settlers, calling for strong opposition to extremist acts.

Gantz's comments reflect his ongoing efforts to promote unity and stability in Israeli politics amid a fragmented Knesset landscape and contentious security challenges.