In a press conference held on Wednesday evening at the Knesset, National Unity chairman MK Benny Gantz urged Israel's political system to agree on holding a national election in September as the one-year mark since the war against Hamas approaches. This statement marks the first time Gantz has mentioned a specific month for the election since joining Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an emergency government following the Hamas massacre last year.

Gantz stated that he has been in discussions with political leaders in recent weeks regarding the election and has informed the prime minister about these discussions. He emphasized that an agreement to hold an election would provide Israel with the necessary time to continue its war efforts while instilling renewed trust among its citizens. Gantz also expressed hope that other "Zionist and responsible" leaders would join the government during this interim period, preventing any potential schism among the people.

Additionally, Gantz highlighted the significance of gaining international backing through a national election. This call for an election comes after a recent protest in Jerusalem, which turned violent, prompting Gantz to emphasize the importance of quiet at the ballot box, rather than turmoil in the streets.

Despite not explicitly stating that he would leave the government if his demand for an election is not accepted, Gantz affirmed that he would do everything in his power to ensure that his proposal is accepted. He did, however, reiterate that he would withdraw from the government if it ceased its efforts to bring back the hostages.

This call for an election coincides with United Right chairman MK Gideon Sa'ar's call for a consensus election in January. Opposition parties such as Yesh Atid, Yisrael Beytenu, and Labor have also expressed similar sentiments. Gantz stands to gain politically from an election, as his National Unity party currently holds eight seats, compared to the Likud party's 32 seats. In recent polls, Gantz consistently surpasses 30 seats, while the Likud party struggles to reach 20.

In response to Gantz's call for an election, the Likud party stated that Gantz should refrain from indulging in politics and focus on the ongoing war efforts. The party warned that an election at this time would bring paralysis, divisiveness, and hinder progress in the war against Hamas.

Towards the end of his speech, Gantz addressed several points regarding the security situation, assuring the public that efforts were being made to bring back hostages and restore normalcy in the evacuated regions. He also highlighted the possibility of a regional treaty with Saudi Arabia to counter Iran and potentially replace Hamas in Gaza.

Various figures have responded to Gantz's call for an election. Opposition leader MK Yair Lapid criticized the government, stating that waiting another six months for the current government to step down is not feasible. Former MK and left-wing camp candidate Yair Golan accused Gantz of prioritizing the failing Netanyahu government over the state of Israel.

US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer supported Gantz's call for an early election, referencing a major poll which indicated that over 70% of the Israeli population agrees with the need for one.

As the political landscape evolves, the prospect of a national election looms in September, bringing potential changes and opportunities for Israel's future.