In a dramatic turn of events, opposition politician Benny Gantz resigned from Israel’s emergency government on Sunday evening, calling for early elections and accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of mishandling the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Gantz, a centrist and former general, had joined Netanyahu’s coalition in the wake of Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, which had left the nation reeling and seeking a unified front.

In a televised speech, Gantz lambasted Netanyahu, claiming the Prime Minister was obstructing Israel’s path to “a true victory.” His departure underscores the deepening fractures within the emergency government, which has been beset by internal disputes over its war strategy and approach to achieving its stated objectives.

“This government, under Netanyahu’s leadership, is preventing us from making the necessary progress towards a definitive victory over Hamas,” Gantz declared. “Our current trajectory is not only ineffective but endangers our national security and prolongs the suffering of our citizens.”

Gantz’s resignation highlights the growing discontent within Netanyahu’s coalition, which includes far-right and ultra religious factions that have often clashed over military and political strategies. Despite concerted efforts, Israel remains far from its goals of dismantling Hamas and securing the release of hostages still held by the militant group in Gaza.

Since the onset of the war, there have been ongoing tensions within the coalition, with disagreements over the intensity and direction of military operations in Gaza. Critics within the government have argued that the current strategy lacks coherence and fails to address the complex realities on the ground.

Netanyahu, who has faced mounting criticism for his handling of the conflict, now confronts an even more precarious political landscape. Calls for early elections are likely to increase pressure on his administration as public frustration with the prolonged conflict grows.

As Israel grapples with its military objectives in Gaza, the political instability at home adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation. The resignation of a high-profile figure like Gantz could signal further upheaval and potentially shift the dynamics of Israeli politics in the months ahead.

The coming days will be crucial as Netanyahu’s government seeks to maintain its course amidst the dual challenges of military engagement in Gaza and an increasingly divided political environment at home.