:quality(85)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/infobae/24UUC3YZKFGMRCYOVOW7NTK4DM.jpg "Internal politics grows in Israel: Gantz called for early elections but Netanyahu again rejected them")
Benny Gantz Calls for Early Elections in Israel for September
Opposition leader and member of Israel’s war cabinet Benny Gantz has surprised many by calling for early elections in the country, set for September. This marks the first time such a move has been made since the October 7 attacks, with Gantz citing a lack of international trust and declining popular support for the current government led by Benjamin Netanyahu.
“We must agree on a date for the elections in September, approximately a year after the war started. That date will allow us to continue the military effort and, at the same time, show the citizens of Israel that they will soon be able to renew their trust in us,” Gantz stated.
In the midst of ongoing protests criticizing Netanyahu’s handling of the war with Hamas, Gantz emphasized the importance of unity in these difficult times. He warned against violence and urged the people to respect the law and rules during protests.
While Gantz’s proposal for early elections has been met with resistance from the ruling Likud party, who argue that it would weaken the war effort and negotiations for the return of hostages, opposition leader Yair Lapid has voiced support for the idea. Lapid stressed the urgency of bringing the polls forward to ensure the safe return of captives and evacuees.
The call for early elections comes amidst escalating tensions and widespread dissatisfaction with the current government’s handling of the conflict. With various political figures weighing in on the matter, the future of Israeli leadership remains uncertain as the country navigates through these challenging times.
(With information from EFE and Europa Press)