In a surprising turn of events, Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz has called for new elections to be held in September. The call comes as Gantz believes that a new election would increase Israel’s international support and reduce societal divisions.
Despite his demands, Gantz did not initially suggest any consequences if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not comply. However, he did express his belief that a new election would be beneficial for the country.
Surveys suggest that Gantz’s National Union party, a center-right faction, would be the strongest in a new election, with Netanyahu’s Likud party experiencing a decline in popularity. The official date for the next parliamentary election in Israel is currently set for October 2026.
Opposition leader Jair Lapid has also called for an early election to secure the release of hostages and criticized Netanyahu’s leadership for lacking serious interest in their release. Many Israelis also criticize Netanyahu for not taking personal responsibility for the Gaza massacre that occurred in early October.
As a former general and opposition politician, Gantz joined the war cabinet shortly after the Gaza war began, playing a moderating role in important military decisions. Observers believe that his involvement may lead to more balanced decision-making within the cabinet.
