Ayelet Shaked Decides Against Running in Upcoming Elections

Former Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked has decided not to run in the upcoming Israeli elections, ending speculation about her political future. Several potential alliances were explored in recent weeks, but none materialized.

Shaked was reportedly skeptical about the viability of a "third bloc" in the political landscape, an option that had been discussed. Her potential reunion with former political partner Naftali Bennett is also no longer on the table.

Behind the scenes, a broader union was considered before Yoaz Hendel announced his joint run with Yaron Zelekha. This potential alliance included Benny Gantz, Hendel, and Shaked, among other figures. This initiative also failed to come to fruition.

Additionally, prominent mayors affiliated with the Likud party had been pressuring Shaked to join their ranks. One such mayor, Yehiel Zoar of Netivot, estimated that Shaked could secure a top-ten spot in Likud's primaries if she were to run. Despite her decision to sit out the current elections, Shaked's long-term political path remains uncertain, though a future move to the Likud is considered a possibility.