Ayelet Shaked Abandons Knesset Race, Eyes Future Likud Move

Ayelet Shaked, former Minister of Justice and Interior, has made a dramatic decision to withdraw from the upcoming 26th Knesset elections, with candidate lists set to close in 48 hours. Her announcement follows intense, behind-the-scenes negotiations, primarily with Blue and White party leader Benny Gantz, over the past day. Shaked had explored various options to re-enter political life, including a senior position on Gantz's list, but these efforts ultimately failed.

In recent weeks, Shaked sought a platform to return to public service and lead the "state liberal right" bloc. Potential alliances with various center-right factions were considered but were blocked by political difficulties, internal party opposition, and concerns about the stability of these groups post-election.

Despite her withdrawal from the current race, Shaked does not intend to leave public life entirely and aims for a future return to politics. Sources close to her suggest her next step will be to officially join the Likud party, with the goal of accumulating the required membership tenure for future primary elections. However, she faces significant political challenges, including potential reluctance from Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu due to past political tensions.

Shaked's decision concludes one of the most discussed political sagas of this election cycle, leaving the liberal and moderate right-wing camp without one of its most prominent figures.