Manashimaya
In a significant political shift, Israeli Minister Benny Gantz resigned from the government on June 9, 2024, citing disagreements with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies on the ongoing war in Gaza. This move, while not immediately threatening the stability of Netanyahu’s administration, could lead to notable changes in its approach to the conflict.
Benny Gantz’s Resignation: Context
Former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Minister of Defense Benny Gantz participated in the emergency government that was put in place in October 2023. In reaction to the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which caused serious military and civilian deaths in Israel, this government was established. The ultra-nationalist Otzma Yehudit party, Gantz’s moderate Israeli Resistance Party, and Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud Party comprised the alliance.
Gantz’s role in the government was critical. He was seen as a moderating force, advocating for a more balanced approach to the conflict, which included negotiating a hostage release deal with Hamas. This contrasted with the more hardline stance of many right-wing members of the coalition, who were against any negotiations with Hamas.
Reasons Behind the Resignation
In his resignation speech, Gantz expressed frustration over Netanyahu’s handling of the war. He accused Netanyahu of preventing progress towards a “true victory,” thereby prolonging the conflict unnecessarily. Gantz’s deadline for a concrete plan to end the war by June 8 was unmet, prompting his decision to leave the government.
Gantz’s departure also signals his discontent with the internal and international handling of the conflict. The war in Gaza has led to a high death toll, with over 35,000 casualties, mostly women and children, leading to global condemnation, including from Israel’s staunch ally, the United States. Within Israel, protests against the government’s inability to secure a resolution have been growing.
Potential Impact on the Israel-Hamas Conflict
With Gantz stepping down, the Netanyahu government is likely to lean more towards its right-wing allies, potentially intensifying its military actions against Hamas. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, from the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, has already demanded Gantz’s seat in the war cabinet. This shift could result in a more aggressive stance, as Netanyahu might need to rely heavily on his right-wing supporters to maintain his parliamentary majority.
The absence of centrist voices like Gantz and his colleague Gadi Eisenkot, who also resigned, could lead to a hardening of policies and less willingness to negotiate with Hamas. This change could further escalate the conflict, making a peaceful resolution even more challenging
Possibility of Elections
Gantz’s resignation also stirs the political waters in Israel. He called for national elections later this year, a move that resonates with the public’s growing dissatisfaction with Netanyahu. The Prime Minister has been under fire not just for his handling of the Gaza conflict but also for controversial judicial reforms perceived as undermining the judiciary’s autonomy.
While Netanyahu might prefer to delay elections to manage the current crisis, the mounting pressure from both domestic protests and international calls for a ceasefire might force his hand. The United States and other Western allies are pushing for a ceasefire, adding to Netanyahu’s dilemmas.
Conclusion
Benny Gantz’s resignation from the Netanyahu government marks a pivotal moment in Israeli politics and the ongoing conflict with Hamas. It highlights the deep divisions within the government on how to handle the war in Gaza and sets the stage for potential political upheaval. As Israel navigates this tumultuous period, the absence of Gantz’s moderating influence could lead to a more hardline approach, with significant implications for the region’s stability.
