Blue and White MP Benny Gantz published a post this evening (Sunday) in which he responded to claims by former President Reuven Rivlin that he warned Gantz against entering a unity government during the coronavirus pandemic.
""The first time former President Rivlin invented a conversation in which he warned me against entering the unity government, I remained silent. I did not want to harm the honor of a man older than me. And yet, because he kept repeating the lie, the truth must be told - not only did Rivlin never warn me, he even pushed and promoted the formation of the government, including mediation talks with me and Netanyahu," Gantz revealed.
He said, "Some of them were in the presence of other players in the political system. Most of them were published to the media. You just have to Google it and see. I'm sorry that he chooses to lie, I have no idea what motivates him - I wish him health and longevity.".
Gantz added: "All history mice are welcome to return to interviews from that period. I knew and estimated that the chance of getting the rotation was low. I didn't trust Netanyahu. But I also knew that it was my duty to try to create unity during a pandemic, and that there are important things to address in the country now. That this is the right option in light of the election results and the pandemic.".
""I did not become prime minister - but the State of Israel benefited. The judicial system was preserved. Many lives were saved in Corona. And Netanyahu, he paid with his seat in the subsequent elections" - when Naftali Bennett deceived his voters.
Gantz emphasized: "I did not save Netanyahu - I preserved Israel. I argue that the next government must be a broad and Zionist government - that is what is important now. I would be happy if public figures, present and past, would ask about this need for unity in the people. This is much more important than the history lessons or the virtual reality of this or that person.".
