Netanyahu needs Gantz to win Trump's annexation go-ahead

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a meeting June 7 with Defense Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi to discuss the planned annexation of West Bank lands in accordance with President Donald Trump’s blueprint. The surprise participation by US Ambassador David Friedman gave rise to much speculation. Friedman, a staunch annexation advocate, seems to have been cast in the role of mediator between Netanyahu and the two former military chiefs, his political rivals who are now members of his unity government.

Although Gantz and Ashkenazi have been keeping a low media profile on the explosive issue, they have made clear to Netanyahu that they will not rubber stamp any annexation plan he proposes and, in any case, would not give their OK without a green light from the White House.

Friedman's message at the unusual gathering appeared to boost Blue and White’s position. He said Trump would not give the nod to territorial annexation absent agreement among the top echelons of the Israeli government.

The rift that has opened on the political right among annexation supporters and opponents, who view it as a precursor to establishment of a Palestinian state, further complicates Netanyahu’s predicament. In any case, Netanyahu is unlikely to move without a go-ahead from Washington since he is loath to damage his excellent relationship with the Trump administration.