Former Israeli Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid have announced the formation of a joint list called 'Together Led by Bennett', in a move aimed at ousting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the elections scheduled later this year. This announcement came during a press conference in Herzliya, where Bennett described the alliance as 'the most Zionist and national action we have ever undertaken.'
Bennett, who led the previous Israeli government, emphasized that 'the era of division has ended', indicating that the alliance with Lapid represents a step towards achieving victory. He also invited Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the 'Yashar' party, to join them, asserting that 'our door is open for you too.'
Details of the Alliance
Bennett, who identifies as a 'right-wing liberal Zionist', clarified that he would only rely on Zionist parties to form his coalition, meaning he will not ally again with Arab parties. He stated that all Israelis, even those who do not vote for him, will feel the support of the government, noting that the alliance represents 'the camp of the entire Israeli nation.'
For his part, Lapid confirmed that his party 'Yesh Atid' is setting 'personal considerations aside', indicating that winning the elections requires the full backing of the centrist bloc behind Bennett. He added, 'We unite today to win the elections and form a strong and stable Zionist government', emphasizing the importance of partnership between the center and the right.
Background & Context
Bennett and Lapid cooperated from 2021 to 2022 when they led a short-lived coalition that included parties from the right, center, and left, including the Arab party 'Ra'am'. The new alliance does not mean a formal merger of their parties, but rather the formation of a unified list to contest the upcoming elections, which are scheduled to take place by the end of October.
Recent polls have shown that Bennett's party is tied with Netanyahu's Likud party, with each receiving 24 seats in the Knesset, while 'Yesh Atid' secured 7 seats and 'Yashar' obtained 12 seats. Bennett has been in contact with Lapid and Eisenkot to discuss the possibility of forming a new joint party called 'New Israel'.
Impact & Consequences
The alliance between Bennett and Lapid could shift the balance of power in the Knesset, especially as Netanyahu's popularity wanes. Eisenkot, who joined other opposition figures in praising the alliance, confirmed that the shared goal is to win the upcoming elections. Additionally, Benny Gantz, leader of the 'Blue and White' party, welcomed the move, stressing the importance of forming a broad Zionist unity government.
Conversely, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticized the alliance, claiming that Bennett was a 'radical leftist'. The Likud party also posted a satirical image on the platform 'X' depicting Bennett and Lapid alongside Mansour Abbas, reflecting the political tensions in the country.
Regional Significance
These developments come at a sensitive time for the region, as many Arab countries seek to understand the impact of political alliances in Israel on regional security and stability. The alliance between Bennett and Lapid may reflect new trends in Israeli politics and affect relations with Arab nations.
In conclusion, the alliance between Bennett and Lapid represents a strategic step in the Israeli political arena, reflecting the challenges Netanyahu faces amid declining popularity. It remains to be seen how these alliances will influence the upcoming elections and the fate of the Israeli government.