Trooper to Join Gadi Eisenkot's Party, Hendel to Exit Politics

Hili Tropper and Yoaz Hendel announced on Sunday that they are ending their joint run under the "Zionist House - Reservists" party. The move signals Tropper's likely entry into Gadi Eisenkot's "Yash!" party, while Hendel is expected to leave the political arena.

In a joint statement, the two politicians expressed satisfaction with the party's growth but acknowledged the "complex political reality" necessitating individual decisions. They affirmed their commitment to serving the country and fostering internal cohesion, emphasizing that their "ideological partnership remains intact" and that they anticipate future public collaboration and maintain their friendship without animosity.

Reports indicate Tropper engaged in extensive consultations before the deadline for list submissions, considering four distinct options. One possibility was continuing independently with Hendel, with some party members advocating for this path to attempt crossing the electoral threshold. Another serious option involved Tropper joining Eisenkot, bringing his associates Shira Shapira and Elissaf with him as a group, not just as an individual.

Further considerations included a similar move with Naftali Bennett, though this was deemed more complicated due to Bennett's limited space on his list, especially after a potential merger with Yair Lapid. Tropper also explored joining Avigdor Lieberman's party, but Lieberman faced difficulties accommodating Tropper's demand for a package deal including three individuals.