Bennett and Eizenkot Explore Political Alliance Ahead of Elections

Naftali Bennett and Gadi Eizenkot met last Saturday evening to discuss the possibility of forming a political alliance ahead of the upcoming elections, according to Channel 12 news reported Friday. While contacts between the two sides are ongoing and the potential alliance is being considered, the move has not yet materialized. This is primarily due to reservations from Eizenkot's associates, who are concerned about the significant damage Bennett sustained after his previous alliance with Yair Lapid.

With only four days remaining before the deadline for submitting electoral lists, Eizenkot's close circle is seeking to forge an alliance capable of making a substantial political impact and competing effectively against Avigdor Lieberman. However, the negative experience following Bennett's alliance with Lapid has created apprehension among Eizenkot's supporters, thus far curbing the initiative, despite expectations of a last-minute resolution.

In related developments, the "Kachol Lavan" list confirmed its intention to contest the elections independently, currently working to attract prominent figures without existing political affiliations. These developments occur amidst internal turmoil within the "Yesh Atid" party. Knesset member Michal Shir announced her withdrawal from the party's Knesset list, becoming the eighth Knesset member to leave the party during the current election cycle. Shir joins other senior figures who recently departed, including Meir Cohen, Mickey Levy, and Karin Elharrar.

Politicians describe the situation within "Yesh Atid" as a collapse, with estimates suggesting the party may only secure four to five seats after its political alliance with Bennett. Veteran Knesset members no longer hold guaranteed positions on the list, and these resignations offer them an "honorable exit" before the list submission deadline.

Meanwhile, former Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon, who has been courted by several parties recently, reportedly rejected an offer for a guaranteed seat on the Likud party's Knesset list. Kahlon is not expected to return to the political arena in this election cycle, reportedly preferring to await post-election developments.