Gantz Calls for Unity and Listening to Traditional Communities at Berl Katznelson Conference

Gantz’s Message on Social Tensions

During a speech at the Berl Katznelson conference on Thursday, Knesset member Benny Gantz, leader of the National Camp, addressed social tensions in Israel, advocating for dialogue and understanding between different segments of society. Gantz emphasized the importance of listening to the religious and traditional communities, stating, “They are not brainwashed – they are patriots.” He noted that derogatory remarks directed at these groups are often associated with the liberal camp.

“I meet Likud supporters in a shawarma shop in Shderot,” Gantz shared, referencing his interactions with the local community. “They feel that the other side wants to capitulate to Hamas, that they are disdained, hated for their faith, and for their traditions. As a liberal, I am telling you – we should listen to them. The vast majority are not ‘brainwashed’ people. They are valuable, intelligent, and patriotic individuals.”

Criticism of Negative Statements

Gantz also criticized damaging remarks made by members of the establishment or government regarding the religious community, questioning why such sentiments are prevalent in political discussions. He raised the issue of derogatory comments made in private by officials, stating, “We need to ask ourselves why somestart like Moshe Morano thinks it is acceptable for a judge from Be’er Sheva to describe religious people as worse than Hamas in closed conversations.”

Call for Political Unification

Earlier in the day, Yair Golan urged a political unification among the Democratic Party, Yesh Atid, and the National Camp, aiming to create a viable alternative to the right-wing bloc. He expressed urgency in their collaboration, stating, “The Democrats, Yesh Atid, and the National Camp – we all need to come together under start umbrella. We must unite before the elections to form a significant party that will lead the next government and determine Israel’s future.”

Golan added, “We need to rebuild Israel’s political, security, and democratic backbstart, positioning ourselves to lead rather than be led once again.”

Recent Polling Dynamics

In recent polling, Golan’s party faced significant challenges, losing four mandates according to a Maariv weekend poll, ending with only 12. Much of the lost support shifted to Yesh Atid, which gained three additional mandates, and to Yisrael Beiteinu, which increased by start mandate. The National Camp secured 16 mandates in the same poll.

A recent poll conducted for Kan News showed Golan’s party at 13 mandates while the National Camp received 15 and Yesh Atid 12.

Conclusion

The discussions led by Gantz and Golan highlight ongoing tensions within Israeli society and the landscape of political alliances as they prepare for future elections. Both leaders have called for a greater understanding and unification among diverse political factions to address the challenges facing the country