Benny Gantz Quits Upcoming Election Race

Gantz acknowledged that his political approach had failed to gain sufficient public support, but defended his past decisions to join unity governments during crises, including after the October 7 attacks, as acts of national responsibility. He urged political leaders across the spectrum to avoid returning to divisive politics and to find common ground. Following his withdrawal, Gantz refused to endorse any specific opposition party, stating that he has joined the undecided public and advising voters to support candidates who do not incite the people.

His decision was praised as correct and responsible by opposition figures, including Yashar! Chairman Gadi Eisenkot and Democrats Chairman Yair Golan. Within his own party, MK Alon Schuster called the resignation a significant political moment but affirmed that Blue and White's core values remain unchanged, noting that he had supported the withdrawal to avoid wasting votes.