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Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s war cabinet and a political opponent of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has stepped down from his government position in Israel’s war cabinet.

In a televised statement, Gantz explained that his departure was driven by Netanyahu’s failure to advance towards a decisive victory in Gaza, calling the decision to leave both “complex and painful.” Gantz accused Netanyahu of prioritizing personal political goals over a comprehensive post-war strategy, stating, “Fateful strategic decisions are met with hesitancy and procrastination due to political considerations.”

Gantz’s resignation follows his ultimatum last month, demanding Netanyahu outline a new war plan by June 8. He had postponed his announcement after Israeli forces rescued four hostages, a mission that Gazan officials claimed resulted in over 270 Palestinian deaths. Despite Netanyahu’s plea for unity and his call for Gantz to remain, Gantz decided to leave, emphasizing the need for a national election.

This development comes as Netanyahu’s government remains stable with a 64-seat majority in the Knesset, but the war cabinet now lacks representation beyond Netanyahu’s Likud party.