Home Politics Benny Gantz Steps Down: Israeli Centrist Minister Quits Netanyahu Government Over Budget...

Benny Gantz Steps Down: Israeli Centrist Minister Quits Netanyahu Government Over Budget Clash

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Photo by AFP / ARAB NEWS

In a significant development in Israeli politics, Benny Gantz, the centrist minister and leader of the Blue and White party, has tendered his resignation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. The decision comes amidst growing tensions within the coalition government, primarily revolving around the failure to pass a budget and disagreements over judicial appointments.

Gantz, who had previously served as the Chief of General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, entered into a power-sharing agreement with Netanyahu last year in an attempt to end a prolonged political deadlock. Under the terms of the agreement, Gantz was appointed as the Alternate Prime Minister and Minister of Defense in the unity government formed in May 2020.

However, internal strife and policy disagreements have marred the alliance between Gantz’s Blue and White party and Netanyahu’s Likud party. One key point of contention has been the failure to pass a budget, which has raised concerns about the government’s stability and its ability to address pressing economic issues facing the country.

In his resignation statement, Gantz highlighted the impasse over the budget as a central factor in his decision to step down. He stated,

The citizens of Israel are looking around and seeing that the only functioning thing in this government is the vaccination campaign. I call on you, Prime Minister, to pass the budget today.

Additionally, disagreements over judicial appointments have further strained the fragile coalition. Gantz has voiced concerns about Netanyahu’s efforts to influence the judiciary, viewing it as a threat to Israel’s democratic institutions.

Gantz’s departure from the government is expected to have significant repercussions on Israeli politics. If efforts to form a new coalition fail, it could trigger early elections. The move also raises questions about the future of the unity government and Netanyahu’s ability to maintain power amidst mounting challenges.

As Israel grapples with political uncertainty and internal divisions, the resignation of Benny Gantz underscores the deep-seated tensions within the country’s political landscape, with far-reaching implications for its future direction.

Source: Reuters June 10, 2024

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