Gantz said to replace mobile device and number 7 times in recent years

Former minister’s confidants cited as saying moves followed increase in incitement, harassing messages

National Unity chief MK Benny Gantz, who served as defense minister until recently, has replaced his mobile phone and number seven times in the past three years, according to a television report Friday.

Citing confidants close to Gantz — often code for statements given to reporters unofficially — the Kan public broadcaster said there had been an increase in incitement and defamation made against the former minister.

The network said he had replaced his number and mobile device seven times in the past three years, mostly during 2020. Gantz served as defense minister between May 2020 and January 2023.

According to Kan, Gantz has received harassing messages via WhatsApp from activists on both sides of the political spectrum.

There was no immediate comment by Gantz or his party regarding the report.