Yair Lapid Unveils Yesh Atid Knesset List Amidst Wave of Resignations

Yesh Atid party leader Yair Lapid announced the first 15 candidates for the party's Knesset list for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections on Saturday evening. The list includes Lapid himself, along with Merav Ben Ari, Noam Tivon, Merav Cohen, Ram Ben Barak, Naor Shiri, Vladimir Belyak, Yorai Lahav Hertzanu, Yasmin Sax Friedman, Nita Atias, Moshe (Kinley) Tur Paz, Simon Davidson, Shelly Tal Meron, Roni Pnini Malkai, and Maty Tzartafy Harkavi.

Lapid described the process of forming the list as unprecedented and emotionally challenging, stating that while it was a sad moment, it was also inspiring. He emphasized that the candidates are strong, experienced professionals who fought against a "tyrannical majority" and an "insane coalition" that he claims "destroyed the country." He highlighted their support for the families of abductees, their work in committees, and their participation in protests and demonstrations.

He contrasted Yesh Atid's approach with other parties, where he alleged lists are formed through exclusion, leading to angry resignations and lawsuits. Lapid asserted that Yesh Atid has cultivated a different culture based on friendship and trust, transforming difficulty into opportunity and embracing a new generation. He acknowledged that the future Knesset would be significantly smaller for many, impacting numerous individuals.

The announcement follows a recent wave of resignations from Yesh Atid, reportedly due to assessments that the political alliance with Naftali Bennett would only secure a limited number of realistic seats for the party on a joint list. Notable departures include MK Michal Shir and former minister and MK Karin Elharrar, preceded by MKs Debi Biton, Mickey Levy, and Meir Cohen announcing the end of their parliamentary careers with the party.

Lapid expressed his belief in his team, their values, and their path, as well as his confidence in Bennett's leadership. He concluded by stating that after every fall comes a rise, and that those who achieve real things are those who do not give up in difficult times. He recalled a past instance where his party was declared finished, only for him to later form a government, expressing his intention to do the same again.