Gantz repeats call for ‘hostage redemption government,’ calls for Israel to take latest US Gaza proposal

Blue and White-National Unity chairman Benny Gantz reiterates his call for opposition leaders to form a temporary “hostage-redemption government,” insisting that Israel must negotiate for a comprehensive deal to free those remaining in captivity in Gaza.

Israel should officially announce that it accepts the latest American outline for an end to the war, “and send a negotiating team,” he says. “We must use the military pressure created on the ground and not waste it again.”

“We also understand the political limitations. Therefore, I call on my friends in the opposition today. Let’s do what the people need. A temporary government to redeem captives and support the troops is the right solution for the State of Israel,” he continues. “Our hostages and soldiers are more important than ‘just not Bibi.’ We weren’t elected to sit and shout from the stands, but so that we could get on the field and score.”

During a press conference last month, Gantz called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as well as fellow opposition leaders to establish a temporary emergency government tasked with tackling two of Israel’s most urgent challenges: securing the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and advancing legislation on the ultra-Orthodox military draft.

His proposal was rejected by his fellow opposition party leaders.