Jerusalem: Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz has called for the establishment of a 'government without extremists' to facilitate the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip and bring an end to the ongoing conflict in the region. Gantz, who leads the Blue and White Party, proposed a temporary government that would include current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, opposition leader Yair Lapid, and Avigdor Lieberman of the Yisrael Beiteinu Party.
According to Anadolu Agency, Gantz announced at a news conference that this proposed government would be temporary, lasting only six months, with general elections planned for spring 2026. He emphasized that the objective is to prioritize the release of captives and achieve a resolution to the war. Gantz also acknowledged potential political backlash from his proposal, emphasizing his intent to save hostages rather than political figures.
The proposal was met with criticism from far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who highlighted past differences in policy in regions like Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Rafah. Ben-Gvir asserted that right-wing voters supported a right-wing agenda, rejecting Gantz's centrist approach and any potential concessions with Hamas.
Gantz's call for a unity government comes amid Israel's ongoing efforts to negotiate a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. Previously, he joined Netanyahu's government in October 2023 to form an 'emergency government' due to the Gaza conflict, but he resigned in June 2024 over policy disagreements.
Recent polls suggest that Gantz's party could struggle in upcoming elections, with one poll by KAN indicating that the Blue and White Party might secure only four Knesset seats, potentially falling below the electoral threshold.
The conflict remains dire, with Israel estimating that 50 captives remain in Gaza. Meanwhile, over 10,800 Palestinians are reportedly detained in Israeli prisons under severe conditions, and the military campaign has led to significant casualties and devastation in Gaza.
The international community has taken note, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes, and Israel facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.