Ganz Calls on Netanyahu, Lapid, and Lieberman to Join Emergency "Prisoner Redemption Government"

In a dramatic political statement Saturday evening at Kfar Maccabiah, Blue and White party chairman Benny Gantz unveiled a proposal for the formation of a time-limited unity government aimed at resolving the ongoing hostage crisis and advancing a conscription framework.

“We are at a crucial crossroads — with the possibility of moving forward with a deal,” Gantz said. “I call on Netanyahu, Lapid, and Lieberman: the time has come for a prisoner redemption government, time-limited for six months.”

Reporters were invited to ask questions following the announcement, signaling the seriousness of Gantz’s initiative.

A Last-Ditch Effort for the Hostages

According to political sources, Gantz is preparing to offer Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a six-month coalition agreement specifically focused on resolving the issue of the kidnapped Israelis and advancing critical legislation regarding military conscription.

There is a growing sense among political insiders that this may be the final opportunity to secure the release of the hostages held since the outbreak of the Iron Swords War.

Blue and White Struggles in the Polls

Recent polls show that Gantz’s Blue and White party is teetering below the electoral threshold, adding pressure on the party leader to take bold political steps. This latest initiative could represent a strategic move to regain political relevance while addressing urgent national concerns.

Past Praise and Private Criticisms

Last month, Gantz notably praised the government's handling of the ongoing war, though this was contrasted by leaked recordings aired by journalist Michael Shemesh on Kan News last Thursday. In 11 separate audio clips, Gantz is heard criticizing members of the opposition, claiming: “The radical left is putting up money to throw me out.”

A Possible Return to Government

If Gantz proceeds with joining Netanyahu’s government, it would mark the second time he has entered a unity coalition. Following the October 2023 outbreak of the Iron Swords War, Gantz and fellow party member Gadi Eisenkot joined the war cabinet as part of the unity government under the party's former name, the “State Camp.” Both resigned from the cabinet in June 2024, citing policy disagreements.

As political tensions rise and the fate of the hostages remains unresolved, Gantz’s proposal may reshape the coalition landscape. The coming days are likely to determine whether his call for a short-term unity government will gain traction among Israel’s major political factions — or fade as another unrealized political maneuver.