Israeli Party Leader Vows to Continue Election Race Amid Consolidation Talks

Sharren Haskel, chairwoman of the "Israel First" party, stated on Sunday that her party will remain in the upcoming election race until the end, even if pre-election polls do not indicate they will pass the electoral threshold. In an interview on Channel 14's "Morning Edition," Haskel revealed that her party is actively engaged in discussions with various political factions aiming for potential mergers.

Haskel asserted that her party is gaining momentum, citing a gradual increase in poll numbers and the recent addition of Jonathan Pollard to their ranks. She emphasized that "Israel First" is committed to a right-wing agenda that includes conscription for the ultra-Orthodox, a stance she claims other parties do not uphold.

When confronted with poll data suggesting her party's low support, Haskel dismissed the polls as unreliable predictors of election outcomes, referencing past elections where poll results significantly differed from final vote counts. She indicated that significant shifts can occur in the remaining time before the election deadline.

Haskel also criticized the current government's reliance on ultra-Orthodox parties, describing them as exploitative and detrimental to genuine right-wing policy. She argued that her party offers an alternative for right-wing voters disillusioned with the status quo, particularly regarding the conscription issue.

While Haskel expressed optimism about potential mergers within the right-wing bloc, she maintained that "Israel First" will run independently if no agreements are reached. She alluded to possible developments and mergers occurring within the week, driven by a desire to bridge divides among various right-wing figures, despite what she described as ego and complex calculations among them.