Middle East Crisis> Benny Gantz Quits Israel’s Emergency Government in Dispute Over Gaza
War
Israel’s Defense Minister Benny Gantz resigned from the country’s emergency government on Monday, citing a dispute over the handling of the recent conflict in Gaza.
Gantz, who is the leader of the Blue and White party, said in a statement that he could no longer serve in a government that was not committed to a ceasefire and a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
“I cannot continue to be a part of a government that does not share my vision for a diplomatic and political solution to the challenges facing Israel,” Gantz said. “I will continue to work towards a diplomatic and political solution to the challenges facing Israel, and I call on all parties to join me in this effort.”
Gantz’s resignation comes after a 10-day conflict between Israel and Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza, in which more than 250 Palestinians and 13 people in Israel were killed. The conflict ended with a ceasefire brokered by Egypt.
Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who heads the emergency government, said in a statement that he regretted Gantz’s decision to resign and that he would continue to work towards a diplomatic and political solution to the challenges facing Israel.
“I regret Benny Gantz’s decision to resign from the government, but I understand his position,” Bennett said. “I will continue to work towards a diplomatic and political solution to the challenges facing Israel, and I call on all parties to join me in this effort.”
Gantz’s resignation is likely to further destabilize the already fragile emergency government, which was formed in June after four elections in two years failed to produce a clear winner. The government is a coalition of eight parties, including Bennett’s Yamina party, Gantz’s Blue and White party, and the Arab Joint List.
It is unclear what will happen next, but it is possible that new elections could be called if the government collapses. This would be a major setback for Israel, as the country is facing a number of challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic difficulties.