Gilad Erdan Withdraws Unity Party From Upcoming Elections

Gilad Erdan, leader of the newly formed Unity Party, announced on Friday that the party will withdraw its candidacy from the upcoming elections. The decision comes just one month after the party's launch in early August.

In a statement, Erdan explained that "the reality shows that the majority of the public in the upcoming elections seeks, above all, to settle the issue of the prime minister's identity, and that the need for a broad national unity government is not a priority for citizens." He cited internal polling and "diligent efforts" that indicated the party's support was insufficient to cross the electoral threshold, and that potential alliances with other parties had not materialized.

Erdan's decision followed failed negotiations with Benny Gantz, leader of the Blue and White party, regarding a potential joint run and the formation of a national unity government. The Unity Party had also reportedly been in talks with Professor Yaron Zelekha about running together. The party, founded by Erdan along with Yuli Edelstein, Aliza Bloch, Oren Smadja, and Hazi Nahama, had advocated for a broad Zionist government and equal conscription law, attracting interest from Likud Knesset members.

"Leadership also means recognizing reality as it is and acting responsibly," Erdan concluded. "I believe we must ensure that the voices of our voters influence the election results and do not go to waste. Today, I withdraw the Unity Party's candidacy, but I will not abandon my public commitment and my path as a public servant."