Pressure Mounts on Benny Gantz for Tri-Leadership with Smotrich and Edelstein Amid Election Delays
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
By מתי טוכפלד
First reported by Walla · Jul 29, 2026
What happened
Benny Gantz is under pressure to accept a tri-leadership with Dedi Smotrich and Yuli Edelstein amid delays launching his new party and poor poll performance. Gantz refuses, fearing they might support Netanyahu, risking splits that could push Smotrich to Likud and deter Edelstein from joining. Failed talks with Yoaz Hendel further complicate the party’s formation ahead of the 2026 elections.
- 01Benny Gantz faces pressure to form a tri-leadership with Smotrich and Edelstein amid election delays.
- 02Gantz refuses, insisting on sole veto power over major party decisions.
- 03Party insiders warn refusal may push Smotrich to Likud and deter Edelstein from joining.
- 04Failed negotiations with Yoaz Hendel and Reservists’ Party delayed the new party’s launch.
- 05Hendel secretly coordinated with Hili Tropper to form a separate list, causing internal distrust.
- 06Gantz’s party risks fragmentation and poor election prospects ahead of 2026 polls.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
Full coverage · 2 outlets
The same event, reported separately by each newsroom. Open a few to compare what each emphasizes — and what they leave out.
