Benny Gantz Announces He Will Not Run in Upcoming Elections

Political commentator Ran Drucker analyzed that Gantz's exit provides an unprecedented strategic advantage to the opposition bloc, which enters the elections with zero wasted votes and established surplus vote agreements. Conversely, the development has intensified pressure within the right-wing camp on smaller parties to withdraw to prevent vote wastage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on small right-wing parties to withdraw to prevent the left bloc from gaining strength, while reportedly committing to appointing Itamar Ben-Gvir as a minister in his next government.

Paradoxically, an analysis by JDN News suggests Gantz's withdrawal could improve Netanyahu's chances of forming a government. While most of Gantz's votes are shifting to opposition parties, particularly Gadi Eisenkot's list, a small portion has moved to the Reservists/Economic list, pushing it over the electoral threshold. This shift, along with other potential withdrawals, could help the right-wing bloc reach 59 to 62 seats. Meanwhile, Channel 14 reported that Netanyahu is expected to receive a public endorsement from Donald Trump, which could add approximately two seats to the Likud party.