Space has been left for Yashar! Leader Gadi Eisenkot to join the former prime ministers' merger as well, Bennett’s office told The.
Leader Gadi Eisenkot to join the former prime ministers' merger as well, Bennett’s office told The.
Former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid announced on Sunday that they will run together in the upcoming elections under a new united political party, in a move that could reshape the direction of the upcoming elections scheduled for no later than October.
Bennett’s and Lapid’s parties – Yesh Atid and Bennett 2026 – will merge into a single list named “Together, Led by Bennett.” The alliance is said to aim to unite the opposition bloc and boost its chances of unseating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“I am taking the most Zionist and most patriotic step we have ever taken, for our country,” Bennett said at a joint press conference with Lapid in Herzliya on Sunday evening.
“Our unity sends a message to all the people of Israel: the era of division is over.
The two said that they would only form a government with the Zionist opposition parties and were opposed to a coalition with Arab parties.
“On the first day of the new government under my leadership, we will establish a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 massacre to bring truth to the families and answers to all the people of Israel,” said Bennet.
He also said that his government would advance a universal conscription law, stop funding draft evasion, and limit the term of a prime minister to eight years.
“We will safeguard the lands of our country and will not hand over a single centimeter to the enemy,” he added.
“We will strengthen an inclusive, welcoming Judaism without coercion.”.
Bennett also told the press that a government led by him would advance same-sex marriage, along with civil marriage in the country.
Regarding differences with Lapid, he said that, “we have different views, and we are proud of it.”.
Party leader Gadi Eisenkot to join him and Lapid’s party at the press conference.
The political importance lies in whether the issue moves from public comment into formal action, party response, court record, election authority notice or administrative decision.
For public institutions and political groups, the next test is whether the issue remains a public argument or turns into a formal response, legal proceeding, administrative instruction or election-related communication.
