Benny Gantz Resigns from Netanyahu's Government

Former Military Chief Calls for Early Elections

Opposition Politician Accuses Prime Minister of Mishandling COVID-19 Crisis

RAMAT GAN, Israel - In a surprise move, Benny Gantz, a centrist member of Israel's three-member War Cabinet, has announced his resignation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government.

Gantz, a former military chief of staff, accused Netanyahu of mishandling the COVID-19 crisis and undermining the country's democracy.

"I can no longer be part of a government that is failing its citizens," Gantz said in a televised address to the nation. "We need new leadership, and we need it now."

Gantz's resignation is a major blow to Netanyahu, who has been facing growing pressure to step down over his handling of the pandemic and his corruption trial.

It remains to be seen whether Gantz's resignation will trigger early elections, but his decision to leave the government has sent shockwaves through Israeli politics.