Shea Levin — text status

Blue and White chairman Benny Gantz is bowing out of the upcoming Knesset election, announcing his withdrawal from the race. Gantz says he will instead focus his efforts on establishing a national unity government, calling it the only way to prevent another disaster and protect Israel against challenges at home and abroad. Gantz is scheduled to formally address his decision at a press conference Monday evening at Kfar Maccabiah, where he will outline his plans.