Benny Gantz resigns from Israel’s war Cabinet due to frustration with Netanyahu

Benny Gantz, a centrist member of Israel’s three-man war Cabinet, resigned, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing his “political survival” over the country’s security. Gantz criticized Netanyahu for mismanaging the war effort and hindering true victory, calling for a change in direction as he expects the fighting to continue for years.

Despite Gantz’s resignation not immediately threatening Netanyahu’s majority coalition, it highlights growing division within the government. Gantz, a former military chief, joined the government after a Hamas attack to show unity but now criticizes Netanyahu’s empty promises.

Gantz’s decision to step down comes after Netanyahu rescued four Israeli hostages from Gaza, the largest such operation since the conflict began. Gantz has called for elections in the fall and urged Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to resign, signaling further instability in the government.

On Saturday, Netanyahu pleaded for unity and urged Gantz to remain in the emergency wartime government. Gantz’s symbolic resignation reflects growing frustration with Netanyahu, potentially increasing the government’s reliance on more extreme members. The United States views Gantz and his party as more responsible within the government.

As tensions escalate, Ben-Gvir demanded a place in the war Cabinet, criticizing Gantz and the smaller Cabinet for their handling of the war effort. The conflict with Hamas, which took 250 hostages, continues with 120 hostages remaining and 43 confirmed dead.