'I can unite the camps': Gantz tells 'Post' that gov. should exclude radicals, Ben-Gvir - interview

Blue and White leader Benny Gantz tells The Jerusalem Post that the next government must exclude extremists like Itamar Ben-Gvir and the haredi parties, calling for a broad Zionist coalition after the October 27 elections. Gantz rules out sitting under Netanyahu, saying he will not give him his 61st vote, and urges rival Gadi Eisenkot to join the effort.

Blue and White Party leader Benny Gantz told The Jerusalem Post in an interview that the next Israeli government must be a broad Zionist coalition excluding extremists such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties. Gantz said his goal is to prevent Ben-Gvir and other extremists from dictating Israel's future and return them to the political margins. He drew a red line against sitting with haredi parties unless they agree to a fair enlistment law and public national education. Gantz ruled out serving under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating he will not give Netanyahu his 61st vote and that Israel needs new leadership. He addressed rival Gadi Eisenkot, who leads the Yashar Party, saying their disagreement is strategic, not personal, and urged Eisenkot to join the effort to prevent a narrow coalition. Gantz welcomed similar calls from the Unity Party led by Gilad Erdan and The Zionist Home-The Reservists party. He outlined his party's goals: restoring internal strength, passing a fair conscription law, strengthening the IDF, advancing a constitution, ensuring public education, and rebuilding cooperation with the US while reducing dependency.