Gilad Erdan Halts Knesset Election Bid, Citing Lack of Support

Gilad Erdan announced that his newly formed "Unity Party" will not participate in the upcoming Knesset elections, a decision made about a month after launching his political project. Erdan cited insufficient public support and the risk of his party failing to cross the electoral threshold as the primary reasons for withdrawing.

Erdan stated that his intention was to form a broad Zionist government and address key issues such as military conscription and societal divisions. However, he observed that the public's focus remained largely on the identity of the next prime minister, with less attention given to the concept of a national unity government.

Attempts to merge with other political factions also proved unsuccessful, according to Erdan. He expressed concern that his supporters' votes would be wasted if the party did not meet the minimum electoral requirements.

Erdan thanked those who joined his initiative, including Yuli Edelstein, Aliza Bloch, Oren Smadja, and Hazi Nehamah. He also indicated that this withdrawal from the election campaign does not signify an end to his public service.

Earlier, it was reported that the defense industry had issued an ultimatum to Netanyahu.