Unity Party's Edelstein Confirms Impending Merger with Gantz's Blue and White

Yuli Edelstein, a member of the Unity Party led by Gilad Erdan, confirmed on Thursday that a merger with Benny Gantz's Blue and White party is likely to occur soon, with less than a week remaining until the deadline for submitting electoral lists. "The answer is yes," Edelstein stated in an interview with "HaMahadura HaYomit" when asked about a potential union.

While expressing strong hope for the merger, Edelstein acknowledged that he could not guarantee it 100%, emphasizing the need for both parties to conclude that running together is a "real necessity" before the upcoming deadline. He believes there are no significant ideological differences between the parties regarding the formation of a "broad Zionist" government. When questioned about who would lead a unified party, Edelstein suggested that leadership would be determined through negotiations, hoping that "ego issues" would not impede the process.

The path to unification may face obstacles. Despite Erdan tweeting earlier in the week about potential "unions in the unity camp," a member of his list, Hazi Nechama, stated on Thursday that he would not be part of such a merger. Recent polls from Channel 12 indicate that even a combined party might struggle to pass the electoral threshold.

Edelstein reiterated that the Unity Party is actively seeking to create unity within what is referred to as the "third bloc." He admitted that the party's current standing is not ideal but expressed confidence that a merger would yield a better result. The Unity Party plans to endorse a party leader committed to forming a broad Zionist government and presenting a fair proposal to relevant parties.

Blue and White responded by stating that Gantz is determined to establish "the bloc of the people of Israel" and is engaged in discussions with various parties who share the vision of forming a broad, cross-bloc Zionist government.