Benny Gantz Exits Knesset Race, Urging National Unity
Blue and White party leader Benny Gantz has announced his withdrawal from the upcoming legislative elections, accepting personal responsibility for failing to secure sufficient electoral backing. In an emotional farewell address, he cautioned political leaders against repeating the deep societal divisions that preceded October 2026, advocating instead for a broad coalition government. Gantz timed his announcement to coincide with the opening of early voting for military personnel, aiming to prevent wasted votes for a party no longer in the running. Despite paying a heavy political price, he stated he has no regrets regarding his past decisions to join emergency administrations for the sake of the nation.

