Smotrich Urges Joint Run for Right-Wing Parties, Cites 70-Seat Potential

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for a unified electoral slate encompassing all parties to the right of the Likud, following his party's recent merger with Moshe Feiglin's Zehut.

Speaking on Channel 14's "HaPatriotim" program, Smotrich urged Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben-Gvir and "Am Israel" chairman Ofer Winter to join forces, arguing that such a broad union would prevent vote wastage and significantly strengthen the national camp.

Smotrich stated that a joint run would eliminate the risk of losing votes and allow right-wing parties to focus their efforts on expanding their bloc rather than engaging in internal disputes. He recalled the previous election's joint list with Ben-Gvir, which secured 14 mandates, attributing the success to a sense of urgency and shared purpose.

He specifically addressed Ben-Gvir, who has previously opposed a merger, urging him to reconsider his stance. Smotrich also expressed concerns about Winter's ability to independently cross the electoral threshold, citing past failures of right-wing parties to do so and warning against "adventures."

A poll conducted during the program with over 6,000 viewers showed 96% support for a united right-wing list. Smotrich projected that such a union, combined with increased voter turnout, could lead to a significant victory for the national camp, potentially reaching "70 mandates" and enabling a stable, broad right-wing coalition capable of enacting reforms.

Smotrich emphasized that the upcoming elections require party leaders to set aside differences, citing critical issues such as security, settlement, Jewish identity, and democracy as being at stake.