Netanyahu's rival Benny Gantz withdrew from the race 8 days before the election

According to Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper, Gantz said in his statement, "I will not be a candidate in the next elections. I will continue to fight for unity. This is the only solution that will protect Israel against all the threats we face both inside and outside and prevent a new disaster."

Gantz, who is in the anti-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bloc, claimed last week that he would "stay in the race until the end", even though polls showed the Blue and White Party constantly below the election threshold.

The news also reminded that Gantz said in September that he would withdraw in the last week of the election campaign if the polls showed that his party would fall below the threshold.

Gantz is expected to hold a press conference on the issue this evening.

NETANYAHU STILL BEHIND IN POLL