Small Right-Wing Parties Plan Merger to Challenge Netanyahu

Approximately ten leaders of small right-wing parties are scheduled to meet on Tuesday at the home of Nissim Louk, father of Nova massacre victim Shani Louk, to discuss forming a unified political bloc. The meeting, which was an attempt to remain secret, could be unwelcome news for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is concerned about losing votes to parties that might not pass the electoral threshold. Prominent attendees expected include Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut party; Yaron Zelekha, chairman of the Economic Party; Dedi Shamchi; Yair Ansbacker; Gilad Ach, chairman of the Reserve Soldiers' Victory Movement; Matan Yaffe from the Flag of the Flag; and former Knesset member Gadi Yevarkan, who heads the Beit Yisrael party representing the Ethiopian community, along with other party leaders.

In parallel, the political landscape is active with other negotiations. Benny Gantz and Gilad Erdan are reportedly in advanced talks to unite as a technical bloc, with Gantz leading and Erdan as his second. As part of these discussions, the potential inclusion of Yaron Zelekha as the third candidate is being considered, a move Gantz reportedly hesitates on. Additionally, talks are underway with Ayelet Shaked, who is demanding the second position and the integration of her associates, but she is required to commit to not forming a narrow government.