Israeli Politics Heats Up With New Alliances Ahead of 2026 Elections

The Israeli political landscape is buzzing with activity as parties forge new alliances ahead of the 2026 elections. In a significant development, former IDF General Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the "Yashar!" party, and Chili Tropper, chairman of "Beit Tzioni," have signed an agreement to run together. Under this pact, Tropper will be placed sixth on the joint list, with Eisenkot at the helm. Tropper is also slated for a senior ministerial position should the new party form a government.

However, the Eisenkot-Tropper union has highlighted a rift with Yoaz Hendel. Reports indicate Eisenkot refused to ally with Hendel due to a lack of trust, fearing Hendel might split from the party in the future. Hendel had reportedly sought an independent faction status within the unified list, which would have facilitated a potential departure. Hendel's party had also struggled to cross the electoral threshold, polling at only 2.6%.

Following his exclusion from the Eisenkot deal, Hendel has made a surprising move, announcing a partnership with economist Yaron Zelekha, rather than joining Benny Gantz's National Unity party as some had predicted. Hendel and Zelekha are expected to lead their joint list, which will focus on combating the high cost of living, challenging "ruling capital," promoting equal service, and addressing key economic and social issues. Zelekha expressed confidence that their list would comfortably surpass the electoral threshold.

This alliance is particularly surprising given Zelekha's past criticisms of Hendel, including questioning his understanding of the cost of living and his performance as Communications Minister. For Hendel, this marks his eighth political affiliation in just seven years, underscoring his frequent shifts in political alignment. These recent developments illustrate how the struggle for political survival and crossing the electoral threshold can rapidly alter past alliances and declarations.