Israeli Minister Benny Gantz announced his resignation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s emergency government on Sunday. This move removes the only centrist voice from Netanyahu’s far-right coalition amidst an ongoing and intense military offensive in Gaza.
Although Gantz’s departure does not immediately threaten the stability of Netanyahu’s government, it is poised to have substantial repercussions. The embattled Prime Minister now finds himself increasingly reliant on hardliners within his coalition. With the Gaza war showing no signs of abating and potential escalations in conflict with Lebanese Hezbollah, Gantz’s exit complicates the political landscape.
Tensions between Gantz and Netanyahu have been simmering over strategic decisions regarding Gaza. Last month, Gantz issued an ultimatum to Netanyahu, demanding a clear post-conflict strategy for Gaza by June 8. Israel has been engaged in a devastating military campaign against Hamas, the ruling Palestinian militant group in Gaza.
In a televised news conference, Gantz expressed his frustration, stating that political considerations were clouding critical strategic decisions within Netanyahu’s cabinet. He emphasized the difficulty of his decision to resign, particularly while hostages remained in Gaza and Israeli soldiers continued to fight.
“Netanyahu is preventing us from advancing toward true victory,” Gantz declared. “That is why we are leaving the emergency government today, with a heavy heart but with full confidence.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu swiftly responded to Gantz’s resignation via social media. He criticized the timing of Gantz’s decision, arguing that it was inappropriate to abandon the government during such a critical period. Netanyahu’s response underscores the deep divisions and challenges facing the Israeli government as it navigates the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
