Michael Ben-Ari Quits "Zehut" Party Over Merger Talks

Dr. Michael Ben-Ari has resigned from the "Zehut" party list following disagreements over potential merger negotiations with Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party. Ben-Ari's departure was officially announced by "Zehut," which stated that Rabbi Yitzhak Zargah would replace him, citing Ben-Ari's insistence on finding a worthy successor. However, behind the scenes, the situation was more complex. Ben-Ari reportedly demanded that Baruch Marzel be included in the negotiation team for the potential union with Smotrich. When "Zehut" refused to include Marzel in the talks, Ben-Ari stated he would withdraw if his close associates and those representing his views were not part of the negotiations. Ben-Ari's resignation was ultimately agreed upon, stemming from this dispute over the negotiation team's composition rather than simply making room for another candidate.

Some sources suggested that "Zehut" chairman Moshe Feiglin might have feared that Ben-Ari's inclusion on the list could lead to repercussions for Feiglin himself if Ben-Ari were disqualified. Ben-Ari, however, dismissed this speculation, stating he did not believe it was the deciding factor and that he had no complaints against Feiglin.