MK Matan Kahana Quits the National Unity Party – Will He Join Bennett?
Kahana’s resignation marks the second high-profile defection from Gantz’s party in 24 hours, as talks intensify about a Bennett-led political comeback.
The cracks in Benny Gantz’s once-rising political momentum are becoming increasingly evident. Just weeks after MK Gadi Eisenkot announced his departure from the National Unity Party, MK Matan Kahana has followed suit, declaring this morning that he is leaving the party to “pursue a new path”—though he hasn’t yet revealed what that path is.
In an official statement from Gantz’s office, the party confirmed: “MK Matan Kahana informed the chairman of the National Unity Party of his intention to resign from both the party and the Knesset. Gantz thanked Kahana for his partnership and integrity, and wished him success in the future.”
Earlier today, rumors swirled about Kahana’s impending departure, to which he initially responded cryptically: “I’ll speak when I have something to say.” Now it's official.
According to reports from Kan News, Kahana has been holding frequent political meetings with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who is said to be preparing for a political comeback and eyeing a return to the premiership.
Kahana’s exit is another significant setback for Gantz. During the early months of the war, Gantz surged in the polls, emerging as the leading contender to replace Netanyahu. The National Unity Party even topped several surveys with an impressive projected seat count. But the political landscape has shifted.
Last night, news broke that Gadi Eizenkot, too, is exiting the party and planning to launch a new political initiative that could unite various left-leaning factions.
Gantz responded to Eizenkot’s departure with measured words: “After a long and deep process of dialogue between us, Gadi informed me today of his decision to leave the National Unity Party and resign from the Knesset. In recent weeks, significant ideological gaps have emerged between us regarding how best to serve the State of Israel. Gadi is first and foremost a friend and a worthy public servant. While our political partnership ends here, our personal friendship and mutual respect remain intact.”
As Israel edges closer to elections, the fragmentation of Gantz’s party may reshape the entire center-left bloc—and potentially clear the runway for new political alliances on the right.