Benny Gantz, a centrist member of Israel’s War Cabinet, threatened to resign from the government if a new plan for the war in Gaza is not adopted within three weeks. This would leave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu more reliant on his far-right allies. Gantz’s plan includes the return of hostages, ending Hamas’ rule, demilitarizing Gaza, establishing an international administration of civilian affairs, normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia, and widening military service for all Israelis. He set a June 8 deadline for the adoption of this plan.
The potential resignation of Gantz, a former military chief of staff, would leave Netanyahu dependent on his far-right allies who advocate a hard line on negotiations over cease-fire and hostage release. Gantz’s move comes after Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced he would not remain in his post if Israel elected to reoccupy Gaza. Gantz accused Netanyahu of allowing personal and political considerations to interfere with Israel’s security. Polls suggest Gantz could replace Netanyahu, exposing the latter to prosecution on corruption charges.
Netanyahu is facing pressure from hard-liners in his government who want the military offensive in Gaza to continue with the goal of crushing Hamas. The U.S. and other allies have warned against the offensive in the city of Rafah due to the humanitarian crisis it has caused. The U.S. national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, is scheduled to meet with Netanyahu to discuss the war. Many Israelis are calling for a cease-fire to end the fighting and free the remaining hostages held by Hamas.
The war began after Hamas attacked southern Israel in October, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages. The Israeli offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of more than 35,000 Palestinians. Gantz has called for the return of hostages, ending Hamas’ rule, and demilitarizing Gaza, while also proposing an international administration take over civilian affairs, ruling out long-term Israeli occupation. Netanyahu has expressed the need for security control and partnership with non-Hamas affiliated Palestinians.
Talks mediated by Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt have made little progress towards a cease-fire. The situation remains uncertain, with Gantz openly challenging Netanyahu’s leadership and calling for a change in strategy. The discovery of the bodies of several hostages killed by Hamas has added to the urgency for a resolution. Gantz has raised concerns about Netanyahu’s motives, accusing him of putting political interests ahead of the nation’s security and well-being.
