Ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot announced their withdrawal from the Israeli emergency government headed by Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, calling for early elections 'as soon as possible.' The withdrawal highlights the ongoing political turmoil amid Israel’s war on the Gaza Strip. Gantz and Eisenkot, both former chiefs of staff and members of the State Camp party, accused Netanyahu of prioritizing personal political interests over the country’s strategic goals.
Gantz, a prominent candidate for forming the next government, accused Netanyahu of preventing a real victory in the Gaza conflict by allowing political considerations to hinder strategic decisions. Echoing similar sentiments, Eisenkot condemned the government's failure to achieve the objectives of the war, including the elimination of Hamas and the return of Israeli prisoners from Gaza.
The departure of Gantz and Eisenkot does not immediately dismantle the government, as Netanyahu's coalition still holds a majority with 64 out of 120 Knesset members. This withdrawal, however, strengthens calls from opposition parties for early elections. Notably, far-right leaders Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who have been dissatisfied with their exclusion from major wartime decisions, view the withdrawal as an opportunity to exert more influence.
The resignation of Gantz and Eisenkot could intensify opposition mobilization against Netanyahu, increasing pressure for negotiations with Hamas and pushing for early elections. Opposition leaders like Yair Lapid have welcomed the resignations, hoping to form a new government that restores Israel’s security and international standing.
Despite facing criticism, Netanyahu has remained steadfast in his position, arguing that early elections would 'paralyze the state' and hinder crucial negotiations. With the departure of Gantz and Eisenkot, Netanyahu is now left to navigate the war and political landscape with his remaining right-wing and ultra-Orthodox coalition partners.
As Gantz leaves the government, it remains uncertain how the power dynamics will shift. Ben Gvir and Smotrich have quickly sought to join the war cabinet, aiming to influence strategic decisions amid calls for aggressive military actions. This political reshuffle could further polarize the Israeli government, complicating efforts to reach a ceasefire or engage in effective prisoner exchange negotiations.
- In recent months, protests by families of prisoners have escalated, demanding that the government conclude an agreement with Hamas for their release. This public pressure, combined with opposition from political figures, may increase the likelihood of policy shifts or new election calls.
- The current situation also poses challenges for Netanyahu’s international relations, especially with the United States, which has lost a moderate interlocutor with Gantz’s resignation. Gantz’s departure might strain Netanyahu's attempts to maintain support from international allies.
- Gantz’s party, National Unity, is considered a leading contender in potential elections. Polls suggest that should elections occur, Netanyahu’s coalition risks losing power, with Gantz’s party poised to gain significant seats. This impending political shift is anticipated to add urgency to Netanyahu’s strategic decisions.
- Far-right leaders Ben Gvir and Smotrich have made clear their intent to push for more aggressive actions in Gaza and potentially Lebanon. Their rising influence in the government could mean a hardening of Israeli military positions and an escalation in regional tensions.
