Gantz thanks protesters, vows ‘no compromise’ unless ‘crazy’ legislative blitz halts

National Union party chief Benny Gantz hails today’s mass protest in Jerusalem, telling the assembled demonstrators: “I want to thank you for everything you’ve given the state to this point,” adding that “these are fateful days for Israeli democracy.”

Addressing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Gantz says: “Just because you have the majority, you don’t have the authority to do whatever you want. Just like if you were a bus driver, you can’t write the rules of the road.

“We are not ready to compromise on Israeli democracy and there will be no such compromise,” he says. “We are calling for discussion… [but] there will not be discussion until this crazy process stops,” referring to the legislative blitz, which the coalition has vowed to continue even if compromise talks are launched.

“We’re not ready for the politicization of the judicial system. This is what protects the citizens and their civil rights. We must not let it be harmed in any way,” Gantz says, adding that he has heard there are more than 100,000 protesters outside the Knesset.

“Don’t get exhausted. Continue, continue, continue. We have no other choice and no other country.”