Israel First Party Leader Vows to Cross Election Threshold Despite Polls

Sharren Haskel, chairwoman of the newly formed "Israel First" party, has declared her party's intention to run in the upcoming elections until the end, despite current polls placing it below the electoral threshold. In an interview with Channel 7, Haskel stated her goal is for the party to become a "blocking bloc" that prevents either of the two major political blocs from forming a government without its support.

Haskel explained that the decision to run independently came after attempts to forge political alliances failed, as she was unwilling to compromise on her principles. She mentioned discussions with figures like Gilad Erdan, Yoaz Hendel, and Chili Tropper, but asserted that ego was not the reason for the lack of mergers. Haskel believes her party can push for a national and Zionist government focused on security, economy, conscription, and education, independent of Haredi or Arab parties.

Despite the low poll numbers, Haskel expressed confidence that "Israel First" will surpass the electoral threshold during the campaign, citing a poll that already shows nearly one percent support and the party's alliance with the Green Leaf party. She clarified that her aim is not to become prime minister or lead a bloc, but to join a right-wing government that reduces reliance on sectoral interests.

Haskel also highlighted the partnership with Jonathan Pollard, describing him as someone who paid a heavy personal price for his Zionist beliefs and is actively involved in the party's grassroots efforts. The alliance with Green Leaf, she explained, is focused on addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) victims, not solely on cannabis, aiming to leverage Green Leaf's experience to help those suffering from mental distress, including soldiers.

The party plans to promote treatments and medications for PTSD and explore new therapeutic approaches, drawing inspiration from practices in the United States and elsewhere.