Israeli Minister Benny Gantz has called for early parliamentary elections to be held in September. This was announced in a televised speech from his office in the Knesset, where he emphasized the need for a consensus date on the matter. He urged for the elections to take place as soon as possible, stating that they were necessary.
Gantz’s proposal requires the approval of 61 members of the Knesset, which Netanyahu’s Likud Party does not hold a majority. Gantz stated that he had informed the prime minister of his proposal and wished for Netanyahu’s speedy recovery. However, this suggestion was rejected by the Likud Party, who argued that holding elections during a time of war could lead to paralysis and harm ongoing battles with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Despite this opposition, thousands of people have recently taken part in anti-Netanyahu demonstrations, particularly in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The protesters and families of hostages kidnapped on October 7 have also called for Netanyahu’s resignation during these protests. As tensions continue to rise between Israelis and Palestinians, it remains uncertain whether these early elections will go ahead or not.
