Political Rivals Unite to Challenge Netanyahu Ahead of Upcoming Elections
OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: Two of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s prominent political opponents announced on Sunday that they are joining forces in an effort to defeat his coalition government in the anticipated election later this year.
Former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid revealed their plans to merge their parties, Bennett 2026 and There is a Future. Lapid, who leads the opposition, stated, “This is about bringing everyone together, ending internal conflicts, and focusing on the crucial upcoming elections to move Israel forward.”
Bennett’s office confirmed that their new party will be named Together, with Bennett taking on the role of its leader.
Political Alliances Revisited
Bennett and Lapid have collaborated before, successfully ending Netanyahu’s 12-year stretch in power during the 2021 election. However, their coalition government lasted only about 18 months. They also previously entered Netanyahu’s coalition in 2013, which excluded his ultra-Orthodox allies.
Despite his many political ups and downs, Netanyahu made a strong return in the November 2022 elections, forming what is now known as the most right-leaning government in Israel’s history. Known for his polarizing presence both at home and internationally, Netanyahu remains a key figure in Israeli politics.
Shifting Political Landscape
Bennett, 54, a former army officer and tech entrepreneur, is currently trailing in election polls behind Netanyahu. A recent survey from April 23 indicated that Bennett’s party might win 21 out of the 120 seats in the Knesset, while Netanyahu’s Likud party could secure 25 seats. Meanwhile, Lapid’s party is projected to drop to seven seats, down from the current 24.
Despite these numbers, analysts note that Netanyahu’s coalition of right-wing and religious parties holds just 50 seats, while Bennett and Lapid’s coalition, which could include smaller factions, might reach at least 60 seats.
Lapid, 62, a former news anchor known for his engaging presence, represents Israel’s secular middle class, which has expressed frustration over what it sees as unfair tax and military service obligations. Netanyahu’s ultra-religious allies have been pushing for exemptions for their communities, raising concerns about employment and state benefits.
This issue has become increasingly critical, especially as the military has reported being stretched thin following two years with significant casualties. Both Lapid and Bennett have made military service and its implications a central theme in their campaign, also criticizing Netanyahu for not transforming military successes into strategic advantages against Iran and its allies, Hezbollah and Hamas.
