Gilad Erdan Quits Knesset Race, Disbands Unity Party After One Month

Gilad Erdan, chairman of the Unity Party, announced Friday his decision to withdraw from the upcoming Knesset elections, just one month after founding the party. Erdan explained in a statement that the decision was made due to low public support, which he believes makes it unlikely the party will pass the electoral threshold. Efforts to merge with other parties within the "Unity bloc" also failed to materialize.

Erdan stated he established the Unity Party with the belief that Israel needed a broad Zionist government capable of addressing political divisions and advancing issues like a conscription law. He cited the "terrible massacre of October 7th" and the heavy price paid by Israelis as necessitating a change in direction. However, he observed that the public primarily seeks a clear decision on the identity of the prime minister, with a broad unity government not being a top priority for voters.

After assessing the party's standing and political options, Erdan concluded that continuing the campaign could lead to wasted votes. "Despite many efforts, the support so far for the Unity Party I established does not provide a high probability of passing the electoral threshold, and options for joining with other parties in the Unity bloc are also not materializing," he said.

Erdan emphasized that his withdrawal from the race does not signify an end to his public service. "Leadership also means recognizing reality as it is and acting responsibly, and I believe we must ensure that our voters' votes influence the election outcome and are not wasted," he stated. He thanked his partners, including Yoav Gallant, Aliza Bloch, Oren Smadja, and Hazi Nahmias, as well as activists and supporters.

"I am withdrawing the Unity Party's candidacy today, but not my public commitment and my path as a public servant," Erdan declared. "I will continue to act in every way I can for the people, for IDF soldiers, and for a better future in Israel."